SIFAX Group, Starzs, Elkins Marine, others bag Maritime Youth Empowerment Awards

SIFAX Group, Starzs Investments Company Ltd, Elkins Marine Training International and other notable organisations and individuals have bagged the Maritime Youth Empowerment (MAYE) Awards by Platform Reporters.

Platform Reporters presents these awards once in five years to deserving recipients in recognition of organizations and individuals who have contributed significantly to advance the growth, development and empowerment of young professionals within Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The awards presentation to the recipients was held at the just concluded 10th Annual Maritime Students and Youth Conference in Lagos, recently.

The awards, which have become a notable platform for celebrating excellence and mentorship in the maritime industry, seek to recognize institutions and leaders whose efforts continue to inspire the next generation of maritime practitioners.

The awardees this year were divided into two major categories: Organizations and Individuals, reflecting the broad spectrum of contributions shaping the future of the industry.

For Category A which focused on organizations. Leading the list was SIFAX Group, a major player in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics landscape known for its investments in human capital development and industry advancement.

Also honoured in this category was Widescope International Logistics Ltd, recognized for its role in freight forwarding, logistics innovation and support for emerging maritime professionals.

Respected maritime law firm, Akabogu and Associates earned a place on the list for its contributions to maritime legal advocacy, capacity building and industry development.

Among the government institutions whose regulatory, training and seafarers development initiatives have continued to impact young Nigerians seeking careers in the maritime sector are Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); and the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC).

Training and capacity-building institutions also featured prominently, including Elkins Marine Training International, alongside Sea Transport Services Nig Ltd and L.T.T Coastal and Marine Services Ltd.

Professional bodies awarded included Association of Marine Engineers and Surveyors and the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners both recognized for promoting professional standards and mentorship within the industry.

Rounding off the organizational category were the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) and Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA), whose contributions to maritime research, policy advocacy and industry growth have earned them widespread recognition.

In category B which focused on  Individuals. The individual category showcased accomplished maritime professionals whose careers have inspired countless young people.

Leading the list of the awardees for the individual category was Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, a respected industry leader whose contributions to indigenous shipping development have made a lasting impact in the sector.

The list further included Mrs. Eunice Ngozi Ezeoke, Captain Sunday Umoren, Chief Osuala E. Nwagbara, Captain Segun Enitan Akanbi and Captain Dr. Fola Ojutalayo all recognized for their dedication to maritime excellence and mentorship.

Other distinguished awardees were Mrs. Ify Anazonwu-Akarele, Captain Warredi Enisuoh and Dr. Mrs. Felicia Chinwe Mogo.

According to the organizers, the MAYE award was designed not only to celebrate achievements but also to encourage greater participation of young Nigerians in maritime careers through mentorship, capacity development and industry engagement.

Stakeholders at the event said the MAYE Awards once again highlighted the remarkable organizations and individuals whose efforts continue to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime industry while empowering the next generation of professionals.