The Nigerian maritime industry is set to converge in Lagos for the 2026 Maritime Training Summit and Awards of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON), with key industry stakeholders, regulators and policymakers expected to participate in the event.
The summit, organised by AMJON in collaboration with NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML), is scheduled to hold at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, with proceedings commencing at 10:00 a.m.
Themed “The Power of Innovation in a Future-Ready Maritime Training Agenda,” the summit will focus on the role of innovation, technology and human capital development in strengthening Nigeria’s maritime industry and positioning it to take full advantage of opportunities in the blue economy.
According to a statement issued by AMJON, NSML, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and other major maritime organisations will deliver papers at the event, while other industry experts and policymakers are expected to contribute to discussions around the theme.
The Association said the presentations would provide an opportunity for stakeholders to examine emerging trends, challenges and opportunities in maritime training, as well as explore practical strategies for developing a workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving global maritime industry.
AMJON President, Vera Osokpo, said the summit was designed to stimulate practical conversations around the future of maritime training and ensure that Nigeria’s maritime workforce keeps pace with technological developments reshaping the sector globally.
Osokpo stressed that innovation-driven capacity development was essential to ensuring that Nigeria not only possesses significant maritime resources but also develops the human capital required to transform those resources into sustainable economic value.
She added that the summit would provide maritime journalists with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies, regulatory developments and operational reforms in the sector.
According to her, improved knowledge among specialised journalists would contribute to more informed reporting and enhance public understanding of the maritime industry and its contribution to the Nigerian economy.
AMJON said the conference would also address key challenges and opportunities confronting the maritime sector, taking into consideration current industry trends and developments.
The Association expressed optimism that the deliberations would produce practical recommendations capable of supporting the development of a future-ready maritime workforce and advancing Nigeria’s efforts to maximise the economic potential of the blue economy.
The event will also feature an awards ceremony during which AMJON will recognise organisations, personalities and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of Nigeria’s maritime industry and the nation.
Among the organisations listed for recognition are NSML, NPA, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and other deserving stakeholders.
AMJON said the honourees were selected through established standards of excellence and rigorous evaluation criteria, with emphasis on outstanding contributions, achievements and dedication to the maritime industry and national development.