THE NIGERIAN MARITIME LAW ASSOCIATION (NMLA) YEAR 2024 IN REVIEW
Another year is coming to an end, and what an interesting year it has been for us all! It has been loaded with activities which were in their various ways engaging, informative and also entertaining. Below is a brief recap.
NMLA MEETINGS HELD IN 2024
The Association held five (5) Executive Committee Meetings and three (3) General Meetings. Each General Meeting featured a presentation that addressed various crucial aspects of maritime law and practice. These lectures have been informative, interesting and engaging. We extend our sincere gratitude to the resource persons:
- Mr. Tunji Adeyemi, Partner, Banwo & Ighodalo.
- Mr. Joseph Siyaidon, Team Lead, Stren & Blan Partners.
- Emeka Opara, Senior Associate, Kenna Partners.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENTS
NMLA Maritime Industry Breakfast Meeting – 2nd Edition
The Nigerian Maritime Law Association hosted its 2nd Maritime Industry Breakfast Meeting on April 4, 2024, at The Wheatbaker Hotel, Lagos. The event was masterfully anchored by Mr. Nonso Azih.
The Guest Speaker was Mr. Bismarck J. Rewane, Managing Director/CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited. He made a presentation on the topic: “The Interplay of the Maritime Industry and the Macro Economy in Nigeria – The Way Forward for Growth.” He highlighted three key dynamics for economic growth: leadership, policies, and institutions, emphasizing the importance of strong institutions for positive economic outcomes.
The presentation covered key points on maritime trends, including a post-COVID analysis of maritime traffic, shifts in global trade, and Nigeria’s cargo recovery.
It was quite interactive with discussions on port infrastructure improvement, customs efficiency, and the regulatory impact of Temporary Importation Permits (TIPs). Notable attendees included Honorable Justice A. O. Faji, the Admin Judge of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court, Mr. Bernard Nwaokedibe representing the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, and Naziru Biyankase from the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed, NLGN Ship Manning Ltd amongst numerous other.
The 2024 Breakfast Series committee was chaired by our Treasurer, Mrs. Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore and assisted by the Hon. Secretary, Dr. Emeka Akabogu. We express our profound thanks to the Committee and also to our sponsors.
INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE NIGERIAN MARITIME ADMINISTRATION AND SAFETY AGENCY (NIMASA)
On May 9, 2024, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Association was invited amongst other Stakeholders and practitioners in the maritime sector, to an inaugural interactive session with Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the newly appointed Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA). The Association was led by Mr. Olumide Sofowora SAN, C.Arb, 2nd Vice-President, NMLA.
The NMLA commended NIMASA’s policy reforms aimed at improving business operations in ports and creating equitable conditions for industry stakeholders. The Association also expressed its plans to further engage with NIMASA to support the signing, ratification, and domestication of the Beijing Convention on the Judicial Sale of Ships.
COURTESY VISITS
As part of its activities, the Association was able to pay courtesy visits to some regulators and stakeholders in the maritime sector.
COURTESY VISIT TO THE CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF
On July 12, 2024, the Association paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla. The Chief of Naval Staff was represented by Rear Admiral Madugu, Director of Administration. Also present to receive the NMLA delegation were the Director of Information, Commodore Adams Aliu, Director of Legal Services, Navy Captain Andrew Ekokotu, Commander B.S. Wadak, and Sub Lt. L.S. Kadiri.
The NMLA delegation consisted of the President, Mrs. Funke Agbor, SAN, 1st Vice President, Mr. Mike Igbokwe SAN, Immediate Past President, Mr. Chidi Ilogu SAN, Hon. Secretary, Dr. Emeka Akabogu, Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Omolola Ikwuagwu and Mr. Adedoyin Afun.
Strategic discussions were held at the meeting which ended with the presentation of souvenirs to the President of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association on behalf of the Chief of Naval Staff by Rear Admiral Madugu.
COURTESY VISIT TO THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/CEO NSC
The NMLA also paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Mr. Pius Akuta, on the 23rd of October 2024. The delegation was led by the President, Mrs. Funke Agbor, SAN. Also in the delegation were the 1st Vice President, Mr. Mike Igbokwe, SAN, the Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Omolola Ikwuagwu, Mr. Bello Gwandu, a member of staff of the NSC, and an ex officio member of the Executive and the Administrative Secretary of the Association, Mrs. Anita Olabokunde.
The Executive Secretary of the NSC, Mr. Pius Akuta warmly received the delegation. He recalled his engagement with the NMLA since his assumption of office as Executive Secretary, referring to the recently concluded Seminar for Judges sponsored by the Nigerian Shippers Council. He emphasized the need to support the legislative review of the Shippers Council Act to enable NSC transit to a port economic regulator. Other topical issues were discussed with the assurance of continued collaboration with the NMLA in developing the Nigerian maritime sector.
NIMAREX
The Association was invited to be part of the planning committee for Nigeria Maritime Expo (NIMAREX). The Association is represented on this committee by the President, Mrs. Funke Agbor, SAN and the Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Omolola Ikwuagwu.
THE ADMIRALTY LAW AND PROCEDURE REFORMS.
The Association was fully engaged in carrying out the review and amendments of the Admiralty Jurisdiction Act and the Admiralty Jurisdiction Procedure Rules. The AJPR has been launched and presented to the public and is now fully operational in guiding the conduct of maritime and admiralty matters in the Federal High Court.
The Association has recently set up a committee led by the 1st Vice-President, Mr. Mike Igbokwe SAN to review the Admiralty Jurisdiction Act (AJA). The review is in progress.
14TH ONE-DAY MARITIME LAW SEMINAR
As part of the Association’s 2024 initiatives aimed at promoting knowledge and capacity development, our young members on 20th July 2024 organized the 14th One Day Maritime Law Seminar and participated in the panel discussions.
The event was held at the prestigious Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Lagos. The theme centered on: “Revitalizing Nigeria’s Maritime Industry for Sustainable Prosperity and Global Competitiveness.” Panelists discussed updating maritime laws, enhancing industry training, and resolving regulatory conflicts. Key recommendations included specialized training for judges, governmental support for technological advancements, and legislative action to address regulatory overlaps. The event highlighted the need for continuous knowledge development and regulatory harmonization to boost Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Speakers Included:
- Mr. Inam Wilson SAN (Partner, Templars)
- Mrs. Omolola Ikwuagwu (Partner, George Ikoli and Okagbue)
- Dr. Chukwuechefu Ukattah (Partner, Olaniwun Ajayi LP)
- Mrs. Foluke Akinmoladun (Managing Solicitor, Trizon Law Chambers)
- Mr. Nonso Azih (Principal Partner, Azih & Azih Legal Practitioners)
- Mrs. Mojisola Jaiye-Gbenle (Partner, Foundation Chambers)
- Dr. Damilola Osinuga (Managing Partner, Damilola Osinuga LP)
We appreciate the contributions of all speakers and the 2024 Organizing Committee, led by Mr. Tunji Adeyemi, and extend our gratitude to the event’s sponsors.
SUBMISSION OF MEMORANDUM
Amendments to Section 254(c) of the 1999 Constitution
A memorandum proposing amendments to Section 254(c) of the 1999 Constitution was submitted to the National Assembly by the NMLA. We appreciate the members who contributed to the review and amendments.
The Nigerian Coast Guard (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB 575)
The Association was recently invited by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to its one-day Public Hearing on the Nigerian Coast Guard (Establishment) Bill 2024 held on Thursday 5th December, 2024 at the National Assembly complex, Abuja. The Association was represented by the Hon. Secretary, Dr. Emeka Akabogu.
NMLA/NATIONAL JUDICIAL INSTITUTE MARITIME LAW & PRACTICE WORKSHOP FOR JUDGES
The 4th edition of this workshop was held virtually from October 10-11, 2024. The Planning Committee was chaired by the immediate Past President and Patron, Mr. L. Chidi Ilogu SAN. The dean of faculty was the 2nd Vice-President, Mr. Olumide Sofowora, SAN.
We express our thanks to the Chairman and members of the faculty for hosting a successful event. We also express our appreciation to Mrs. Joyce Akabogu, the CEO of ARS for sponsoring the virtual event.
NMLA MARITIME INDUSTRY ROADMAP
Looking ahead, we remain committed to strengthening engagement with government agencies and enhancing collaboration with the admiralty court.
Our goal is to deepen maritime law specialization and advocacy for industry stakeholders. We welcome the recent establishment of a Ministry for Marine and Blue Economy, which underscores the sector’s economic potential. We are developing a comprehensive maritime strategy and policy roadmap, to be presented to the Minister by the end of 2024.
Special thanks to the working group Chair, our Hon. Secretary Dr. Emeka Akabogu, and the young Members led by Dr. Damilola Osinuga for their invaluable contributions.
15TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) AND LECTURE
The 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Lecture of the Nigerian Maritime Law Association was held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, from November 15th to 17th, 2024, with the theme: “Navigating Policy and Innovation: Practical Pathways to a Green Future for Nigeria’s Maritime Sector.”
Mr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Executive Secretary and CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, delivered the Keynote address on the topic: “International Cooperation as a Catalyst for Revitalised and Thriving Maritime Economy.”
The programme featured four Panel Discussions:
- Championing the Domestication and Ratification of the Judicial Sale of Ships Convention.:
- Legal Frameworks for Sustainable Ship Recycling in Nigeria
- Cybersecurity in Nigeria’s Maritime Industry
Young Members’ Session
The young members session featured discussion on the topic: ‘Glimpse into the Nigerian Jurisprudence on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims.’
The Gala Night was the highlight of the event with prizes being won by delegates, music, comedy, fostering relaxation and networking among attendees.
The event provided engaging discussions, valuable insights, and a memorable experience for participants. Gratitude was duly extended to all attendees, organizers, and sponsors for making the AGM a resounding success.
We eagerly anticipate another successful AGM next year!
COCKTAIL RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF OUR PATRON’S 80TH BIRTHDAY
To round off the year, a cocktail reception was held in honour of our Patron and former President, Mr. Louis Nnamdi Mbanefo, SAN, on the occasion of his recent 80th birthday.
To celebrate this milestone birthday and to appreciate his immense contributions to the growth and development of the Association, a reception took place at the prestigious Lagos Yacht Club, to which members of the guest of honor’s family, his friends, and stakeholders in the maritime industry were invited. It was a convivial and relaxed atmosphere, against the backdrop of the Lagos Lagoon and soft music. Many happy returns, Mr. Mbanefo! 
We look forward with eager anticipation to what 2025 holds in store…