Maritime arbitration can play a critical role in strengthening port efficiency, investor confidence and economic growth by providing a specialised mechanism for resolving disputes within Nigeria’s maritime sector, experts have said.
Veteran maritime operators and legal experts stressed this at the second Members’ Evening of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), popularly known as the MAAN Soirée, on Friday at the Lagos Yacht Club, Marina.
The session, themed “Maritime Arbitration as a Driver for Port Economic Growth,” brought together maritime arbitrators, legal practitioners, industry stakeholders and members of MAAN to examine the relationship between effective dispute resolution and the competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports.
Some of the discussions highlighted the importance of creating an environment where commercial and maritime disputes can be resolved efficiently, professionally and with a clear understanding of the complexities of the industry.
A major presentation at the event was delivered on behalf of Olori (Dr.) Vicky Haastrup, Chairman of Seaports Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) and Chief Executive Officer of ENL Consortium, by Mark Welsh, Managing Director of ENL Consortium. The presentation provided industry perspectives on the challenges and opportunities surrounding maritime business and port development.
Also speaking at the soirée, Chief Gbola Akinola, SAN, C.Arb., a former President of MAAN, shared his experience and perspectives on maritime arbitration, enriching the discussion with insights drawn from his extensive professional engagement with the sector.
Participants also acknowledged the contributions of Mrs Rhodes-Vivour, SAN, the founding President of MAAN, whose vision and institutional foundation have continued to shape the association’s development.
The event also provided an opportunity for members to strengthen professional relationships and exchange views on issues affecting the maritime and legal sectors.
The President of MAAN, Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN, was commended for providing leadership for the association, while the Soirée Committee received praise for organising what participants described as an engaging evening of knowledge-sharing and professional fellowship.
The focus on arbitration comes amid continuing efforts to improve the competitiveness of Nigerian ports, where the efficient resolution of commercial disputes remains important to shipping lines, terminal operators, cargo interests, investors and other stakeholders.
For Nigeria to fully harness the economic potential of its maritime sector, participants stressed the value of professional institutions and specialised expertise capable of supporting confidence, predictability and efficiency in maritime commerce.
The 2nd MAAN Members’ Evening combined professional learning with networking, reinforcing the association’s role in promoting maritime arbitration and strengthening expertise within Nigeria’s maritime legal community.
