The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has commended the landmark appointments of two distinguished female leaders in the West African maritime sector, describing the development as a bold step toward gender inclusion and regional transformation.
In Ghana, Madam Jemilat Mahamah has been appointed Chairman of the Board of the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), a move WISTA describes as a defining moment for maritime leadership in the sub-region. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has named Ms. Iroghama Ogbeifun to the Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), further advancing female representation in a critical national institution.
“These appointments are monumental, not only for the individuals involved but for the entire maritime ecosystem in West Africa,” said Dr. Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria. “We are immensely proud of Madam Mahamah’s achievement. Her leadership promises bold reforms and strategic progress for Ghana’s maritime sector.”
Madam Mahamah’s appointment has been lauded by WISTA Ghana, WISTA Africa, and the global WISTA network as a reflection of visionary leadership, regional collaboration, and the growing acceptance of women in top-level maritime governance.
In Nigeria, Ms. Ogbeifun’s inclusion on the NIMASA Board is being seen as a vote of confidence in her long-standing contributions to the industry. As CEO of Starzs Investments and a dedicated member of WISTA Nigeria, Ogbeifun has built a reputation for driving innovation, investment, and operational excellence within the maritime sector.
“Her appointment is a powerful affirmation of women’s capacity to lead and transform the industry,” Dr. Ani added. “It shows a national commitment to diverse leadership and reflects the values we uphold at WISTA.”
WISTA Nigeria described both appointments as a significant win for inclusive leadership and a validation of the association’s commitment to empowering women in the maritime and trading sectors. The organisation said the developments also serve as a call to action for other African countries to follow suit in bridging the gender gap in the industry.
“These milestones reinforce our belief that when women lead, the entire industry benefits. It is our hope that more women will rise to positions of influence and responsibility, shaping policies and steering the future of maritime trade in Africa,” WISTA Nigeria stated.
With these latest appointments, WISTA continues to strengthen its position as a key player in advocating for gender-balanced leadership in maritime governance across Africa and beyond.
Discover more from Ameh News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
