The Maritime Annual Lecture, widely known as the MAMAL Event, is currently underway in Lagos, drawing over 500 industry leaders, including shipowners, legal practitioners, terminal operators, regulators, naval officers, and diplomats.
Organised by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), this year’s theme — “Addressing the Burden of War Risk Insurance on Nigerian Maritime Trade” — focuses on the persistent imposition of extra war risk insurance premiums on vessels operating in Nigerian waters and the Gulf of Guinea.
The gathering aims to spark strategic dialogue on maritime security, the impact of global shipping insurance practices, and solutions for stakeholders in fishing, shipping, and the broader maritime sector.
Special Guest of Honour, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, joins a lineup of eminent speakers, including industry veteran Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, maritime lawyer Dr. Emeka Akabogu (SAN), and Mrs. Funke Agbor (SAN).
High-profile associations such as the Nigerian Trawlers Owners Association, African Shipowners Association, Shipowners Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Shipowners Association are also in attendance.
MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, said this year’s lecture will critically examine the perceived threats, realities, and far-reaching implications of the extra war risk insurance burden, the classification of Nigeria’s waters as a high-risk zone, and the role of key stakeholders such as Lloyd’s of London, NIMASA, and the Nigerian Navy.
Described as both critical and timely, MAMAL 2025 seeks to shape actionable outcomes and strengthen advocacy for safer waters and more favourable trade conditions.
Reporting by John Obot