The President of the Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, has commended the Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy for its support towards the successful hosting of the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference, while reaffirming the association’s commitment to advancing women’s participation in the maritime industry.
Dr. Ani made the remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Abubakar Mustapha, at the Command Headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.
She expressed appreciation to the FOC for facilitating the visit of WISTA Africa delegates to NNS KADA, describing the tour as an enriching experience that provided participants with firsthand insight into the Nigerian Navy’s operational capabilities and strategic maritime responsibilities.
The WISTA Nigeria President highlighted the association’s role in promoting diversity, inclusion and professional development through mentorship, networking, advocacy and capacity-building initiatives aimed at empowering women in the maritime sector.
In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha applauded WISTA Nigeria’s contributions to the growth of the maritime industry, stressing that women remain indispensable to the sector’s development and the promotion of sustainable growth through social inclusion.
The FOC reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with maritime stakeholders in pursuit of a safe, secure and prosperous maritime environment.