WISTA hails landmark maritime appointments of Jemilat Mahamah, Iroghama Ogbeifun

By Seun Ibiyemi

The Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has commended the landmark appointments of two distinguished women in the maritime sector: Madam Jemilat Mahamah as Chair of the Board of the Ghana Maritime Authority, and Ms Iroghama Ogbeifun as a Board Member of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Describing the appointments as significant milestones, WISTA Nigeria stated that both women’s elevation marks a pivotal advancement for gender representation and leadership in West Africa’s maritime industry.

Madam Mahamah’s new role has been widely welcomed across the continent, particularly by WISTA Ghana, WISTA Africa, and the global WISTA community. Celebrated for her commitment to service and visionary leadership, she is anticipated to introduce impactful reforms in Ghana’s maritime governance.

“We are immensely proud of Madam Mahamah’s achievement,” said Dr Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria. “Her leadership heralds a new era of strategic progress for Ghana’s maritime sector.”

Similarly, the appointment of Ms Iroghama Ogbeifun, CEO of Starzs Investments and a longstanding member of WISTA Nigeria, to the NIMASA Board by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, was described as a testament to her enduring contributions to Nigeria’s maritime development.

“Her appointment is a strong endorsement of the capacity of women to lead and drive transformation in the sector,” Dr Ani remarked.

WISTA Nigeria stated that the appointments reflect a broader shift toward inclusive governance and serve as a compelling example of women’s increasing influence in maritime policy and regulation.

The association reiterated its commitment to championing women’s leadership and fostering deeper collaboration within the African maritime community.