Maritime stakeholders to converge in Lagos for AMJON port efficiency, technology adoption summit

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) has announced plans to host its second-quarter conference on Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Lagos, with a strong focus on improving port efficiency through the adoption of emerging technologies.

The conference, scheduled to take place at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, will commence at 10:00 a.m. and bring together key stakeholders from across Nigeria’s maritime ecosystem, including regulators, operators, and private sector players.

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With the theme, “Attaining Port Efficiency in the Face of Emerging Technology,” the event is designed to provide a robust platform for dialogue on how innovation can transform port operations, boost trade facilitation, and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.

According to a statement signed by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Raymond Tedunjaiye, the conference will examine the growing impact of digitalisation and automation on seaport performance, while also addressing longstanding operational challenges confronting major ports such as Warri, Calabar, and Port Harcourt.

Tedunjaiye described AMJON as a leading body of maritime journalists spanning print, broadcast, and digital media, noting that its conferences have consistently served as credible platforms for informed discussions on critical industry and national economic issues. He added that resolutions reached at the conference would be documented and forwarded to relevant government authorities for policy consideration.

Key government agencies expected at the event include the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), Nigerian Ports Authority(NPA), and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA), alongside the Nigeria Police Force(NPF), maritime labour unions, and terminal operators.

Top dignitaries billed to attend include the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola,  and senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, as well as industry leaders and port managers.

A major highlight of the conference will be an awards segment dedicated to recognising individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Speaking on the significance of the gathering, AMJON President, Vera Osokpo, said the conference has been carefully structured to address pressing concerns within the industry. She noted that while technological advancements are rapidly reshaping port operations globally, Nigeria still faces infrastructural bottlenecks such as poor road networks, inadequate rail connectivity, and inconsistent power supply.

Osokpo explained that discussions would centre on strategies to enhance trade facilitation without compromising security, including the deployment of smart port systems, automation, and the digital transformation of port processes.

She reaffirmed AMJON’s commitment to serving as a strong voice within Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy space, assuring participants of insightful presentations, expert-led sessions, and valuable networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration and driving sustainable growth in the sector.