Experts in Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors stress that boosting women’s participation in the ocean economy is critical for harnessing the blue economy’s vast potential. Mrs. Nneka Obianyor of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) highlighted that while the global ocean economy generates over $2.5 trillion annually and drives trade and innovation, women make up less than 2% of seafarers and only about 10% of leadership roles in the maritime industry.
Obianyor pointed to notable progress in Nigeria and West Africa, where women are increasingly visible as ship captains, port managers, maritime lawyers, and in academia. Still, underrepresentation persists in seafaring and technical roles. She outlined core principles for gender inclusion, including leadership for equality, access to resources, capacity building, workplace safety, education in ocean sciences, and community advocacy.
Capt. Eddidong Akpanebe identified cultural barriers and gender stereotypes as major obstacles, calling for gender considerations in maritime policies and support for women-led ventures. Mrs. Ruth Audu-Nungh from Women in Energy, Oil and Gas (WEOG) emphasized mentorship and resilience as keys for young women to thrive in male-dominated maritime and energy fields.
With increasing education and leadership opportunities, Nigeria’s women are gradually breaking maritime barriers, promising a more inclusive and prosperous blue economy that benefits from the full talent pool.
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