Breaking Barriers: WISTA Nigeria Applauds Historic Appointments of Female Maritime Leaders in Nigeria and Ghana



By Victoria Silvanus


Dr. Odunayo Ani. President, WISTA Nigeria


The maritime industry in West Africa is experiencing a landmark shift as two distinguished women ascend to leadership positions in Ghana and Nigeria. The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has extended heartfelt congratulations to Madam Jemilat Mahamah, recently appointed Chairman of the Board of the Ghana Maritime Authority, and Ms. Iroghama Ogbeifun, who now serves on the Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

These appointments represent not only personal achievements but a broader stride toward gender-inclusive leadership within the maritime sector—an industry historically dominated by men.

Ms Ogbeifun

WISTA Nigeria celebrates the appointment of Ms. Iroghama Ogbeifun by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as a milestone for the Nigerian maritime community. As CEO of Starzs Investments and a respected advocate for excellence in the shipping industry, Ogbeifun brings extensive experience and strategic insight to her new role on the NIMASA Board.

“Her appointment is a powerful affirmation of women’s capacity to lead and transform the industry,” noted Dr. Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria. “We are proud to see a WISTA Nigeria member assume such a vital role in shaping maritime policy and governance.”

In Ghana, Madam Jemilat Mahamah’s appointment is being hailed as a transformative moment. Renowned for her strategic foresight and unwavering commitment to maritime development, Mahamah is expected to bring renewed focus to policy innovation, safety, and industry modernization in Ghana’s maritime sector.

“We are immensely proud of Madam Mahamah’s achievement,” said Dr. Ani. “Her leadership promises bold reforms and strategic progress for Ghana’s maritime future.”

         Madam Mahamah

These trailblazing appointments have been enthusiastically embraced across the WISTA network—from WISTA Ghana and WISTA Africa to the global maritime community—as symbols of progress, empowerment, and inclusion.

WISTA Nigeria emphasizes that these are not just individual triumphs but collective victories for inclusive governance and gender equity. The association remains committed to empowering women across the maritime value chain, fostering cross-border collaboration, and championing diversity in leadership.

As the tide turns in West Africa’s maritime landscape, the rise of Madam Mahamah and Ms. Ogbeifun signals a future where leadership is defined by merit, vision, and the strength of inclusion.


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