Nigeria is set to host leading figures in the global maritime industry as the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference takes place in Lagos on June 25 and 26, 2026.
The conference, organised by Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association Nigeria (WISTA Nigeria) under the auspices of WISTA International, will be held at the Eko Hotels & Suites in Victoria Island and is expected to attract maritime leaders, policymakers, regulators, investors, energy experts, legal practitioners, logistics professionals and business executives from across Africa and beyond.
Organisers said the two-day event will serve as a platform for strategic dialogue, networking and collaboration at a time when Africa’s maritime and blue economy sectors are navigating key issues including energy transition, sustainability, trade competitiveness, digital transformation, taxation and inclusive economic growth.
The conference also coincides with WISTA Nigeria’s 32nd anniversary. Established in 1994 as the first national WISTA association in Africa, the organisation has played a significant role in promoting professional excellence, gender inclusion, leadership development and advocacy within the maritime sector.
Speaking ahead of the event, President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, described the conference as an important platform for shaping the future of Africa’s maritime and blue economy industries.
“The 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference represents more than a gathering of industry professionals; it is a platform for ideas, partnerships, innovation and action,” she said.
“As Africa continues to strengthen its position within global trade and maritime development, this conference will spotlight emerging opportunities, encourage regional collaboration and reinforce Nigeria’s strategic importance within the global maritime value chain.”
Ani noted that the conference would feature prominent speakers and industry stakeholders from the maritime, energy, logistics, finance, legal and public sectors, offering participants insights into critical developments shaping the industry.
Key discussions will focus on themes such as the African blue economy, energy transition and sustainability, maritime trade and investment opportunities, taxation, innovation and digital transformation, leadership, diversity and inclusion, as well as shipping, logistics and supply chain resilience.
Organisers expect participation from delegates across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas, with the conference aimed at fostering international cooperation, attracting investment and creating new opportunities for sustainable growth within the maritime sector.
In addition to plenary sessions and panel discussions, attendees will participate in high-level networking engagements and business interactions designed to strengthen regional and global partnerships.
Industry observers say the hosting of the conference further reinforces Nigeria’s position as a strategic maritime hub in Africa and highlights the country’s growing influence in global maritime discourse.
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