The Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) is set to convene industry leaders, policymakers, and private sector operators for its second-quarter conference on April 30, 2026, with a strong emphasis on accelerating port efficiency through the deployment of emerging technologies.
The conference, scheduled to hold at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, will commence at 10:00 a.m. and is expected to attract a wide range of stakeholders across Nigeria’s maritime value chain.
Anchored on the theme, “Attaining Port Efficiency in the Face of Emerging Technology,” the event comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s port system is under increasing pressure to modernise in line with global best practices. With growing trade volumes and rising expectations for faster cargo turnaround, industry experts say the integration of digital tools and automation has become imperative.
Organisers noted that the conference will provide a strategic platform for examining how innovations such as smart port systems, automated cargo handling, and digital documentation processes can transform port operations, reduce delays, and improve overall efficiency.
In addition to technological advancements, discussions will address persistent structural challenges affecting port productivity, particularly in major locations such as Warri, Calabar, and Port Harcourt. These challenges include poor access roads, weak rail connectivity, congestion, and unreliable power supply—issues that continue to increase the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Raymond Tedunjaiye, described AMJON as a leading body of maritime journalists cutting across print, electronic, and online platforms. He emphasised that the association’s conferences have consistently served as credible forums for addressing critical issues in the maritime sector and shaping policy conversations.
He added that key recommendations from the conference would be documented and forwarded to relevant government institutions to support policy formulation and implementation aimed at improving port performance and strengthening Nigeria’s blue economy.
Major government agencies expected to participate include the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and the Nigeria Police Force. Representatives of maritime labour unions, terminal operators, and other critical industry players are also expected to attend.
Top dignitaries billed for the event include the Comptroller-General of Customs, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, the Director-General of NIMASA, and senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, alongside port managers and leading maritime stakeholders.
A key highlight of the conference will be an awards ceremony recognising individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Speaking ahead of the event, AMJON President, Vera Osokpo, said the conference is designed to address pressing concerns within the industry while promoting innovative solutions.
She stressed that while technology is increasingly shaping port operations globally, Nigeria must address underlying infrastructure deficits to fully harness its benefits. According to her, the conference will also explore strategies for improving trade facilitation, enhancing security, and ensuring seamless cargo movement through the adoption of digital systems.
Osokpo further assured participants of high-level discussions, expert insights, and networking opportunities that will foster collaboration and drive sustainable growth within the maritime and blue economy sectors.
As Nigeria continues its push to diversify the economy and boost non-oil revenues, stakeholders say improving port efficiency remains a critical factor in enhancing trade competitiveness and positioning the country as a regional maritime hub.
AMJON will host a major maritime conference in Lagos on April 30, 2026, focusing on port efficiency, digital transformation, and solutions to Nigeria’s port infrastructure challenges.
AMJON’s April 30 conference in Lagos will explore how emerging technologies can boost port efficiency, tackle infrastructure gaps, and enhance Nigeria’s maritime sector competitiveness.
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