NIMASA D-G seeks more women participation in maritime industry

The Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside, on Friday called for the involvement of more women in the maritime industry to further expand their scope in economic empowerment.

Peterside made the call on Friday in Lagos in a message to an event organised by Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA-Nigeria) to enlighten the Girl-Child on opportunities in Maritime industry.

The director-general was represented by Mr Maduka Ozili, a Director in the agency.

He said that there were vast opportunities in the maritime sector to accommodate more women and make them self-dependent with less hassles.

“Unlike other sectors there are vast opportunities in the maritime sector to better the lives of the girl-child.

“With more of you in the sector the economy of the nation which is anchored on the sector will blossom.

“With many women making impact in the sector in recent times, it is believed that with more of you in the saddle, the nation will be better of,” he said.

He urged the girls to always consult WISTA officials for directives in the choice of career in the sector.

In her paper at the event, titled: “Pathways to Shipping’’,

Mrs Rollens Macfoy, Director, Operations, Ocean Deep Services Ltd. reeled out various areas women could fit into the sector and their requirements

Macfoy, who explained to the pupils the task of off-shore based and on- shore based staff, advised the girls to always opt for the off-shore tasks which were more rewarding.

“Seafarers are paid in dollars because on-board there are nationals of different countries; so dollarisation of their wages becomes necessary.

“It is also exciting to be on-board a vessel as it will afford one the opportunity of knowing the other side of the world and meeting people from other climes,’’ she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by pupils from Ocean Deep Foundation School Apapa, Sacred Heart Secondary School Apapa and Covenant Child Secondary School Surulere.

NAN reports that the girls were driven in a motorcade on a tour of the Apapa Premier Port to further inspire them.