Olayinka Ahmed, Nwiue, Chukwumalu, Comr Funmilola, others for honour at AMJON Conference

All is set for the 2026 Annual Conference of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON), scheduled to hold on Thursday at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, with key stakeholders expected to deliberate on pressing issues affecting Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sectors.

The conference, themed “Attaining Port Efficiency in the Face of Emerging Technology,” is designed to provide a platform for robust engagement on challenges and opportunities shaping port operations, logistics, and maritime trade in Nigeria.

As part of the event, distinguished Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to the maritime, logistics, and national economic sectors will be honoured for excellence, innovation, and impact.

Among those slated for recognition are Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Prevail Farida Olayinka Ahmed, entrepreneur, humanitarian, and advocate for peace and unity; Dr. Festus Nwiue, marine surveyor and logistics consultant; and Chief Chukwumalu Emeka, freight forwarder and maritime stakeholder.

Other recipients include Mr. Emmanuel Anda, Port Manager of Lekki Deep Seaport; Alhaji Olaide Olaiya, container logistics provider; Dr. Atoloye Adebowale Joseph, logistics icon; Comrade Hannah Funmilola, Deputy President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN); and Abdullahi-Lagos Abiola, Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Customs Service, Lagos Free Trade Zone Command.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Raymond Tedunjaiye, said nominees emerged after a rigorous screening process and were selected across categories such as Most Distinguished Female Entrepreneur of the Year, Most Resourceful Port Manager of the Year, and Most Outstanding Port Infrastructure Personality of the Year.

“Previous AMJON conferences have remained credible platforms for constructive dialogue on critical issues affecting Nigeria’s maritime industry and the broader economy,” Tedunjaiye said.

He disclosed that participants expected at the conference include representatives from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigeria Police Force, maritime labour unions, terminal operators, and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Tedunjaiye assured participants of a rewarding experience, noting that this year’s conference has been designed to be more impactful and distinctive.

“This year’s conference promises to deliver enriching conversations and memorable experiences for participants and stakeholders,” he added.

AMJON President, Vera Osokpo, also assured stakeholders that the association would maintain the high professional standards for which it is known.

She explained that discussions at the conference are carefully curated to shape policy conversations and contribute to the continued development of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.

“The topics selected for this conference are designed to keep setting agenda for the maritime and blue economy sector,” Osokpo stated.

She congratulated award recipients ahead of the event, describing the honours as well deserved.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. These recognitions come with greater responsibility and continued excellence,” she said.