By Ayomide Otitoju
Barrister Hassan Bello, Principal Partner of Justicia Legal Practitioners and former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), has committed to providing free legal assistance to Nigerian women in the maritime sector who experience gender-based discrimination in their workplaces.
Speaking at the 2024 MMS Hall of Fame Induction and Life-Impact Awards held at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, Bello highlighted his firm’s dedication to supporting women’s rights, particularly in combating workplace discrimination. “We are ready to partner with Nigerian women for legal support in addressing discrimination and gender-based issues in the maritime industry. Women’s rights matter,” he affirmed.
In his keynote address, Bello emphasized the proven capability of Nigerian women in leadership roles. However, he noted that barriers such as limited access to education, financial resources, and workplace harassment continue to obstruct women’s advancement. “Gender equality is essential to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Women need an economic and political agenda that politicians must address. Before endorsing leaders, women must demand answers on issues like genital mutilation, underage marriage, statutory representation in governance, and women’s empowerment,” he argued.
Among the 2024 inductees, Mrs. Bernadine Ifeoma Eloka, Vice President of Clarion Bonded Terminal, expressed her satisfaction with the induction. She urged organizers to actively engage government and regulatory agencies in future events, stressing that involving policymakers is crucial to turning conference resolutions into action. “In Nigeria, we’re used to talking, but those in government must take strategic steps. I encourage MMS Hall of Fame to bring them on board for women-centric summits,” she advised.
Reflecting on the event’s impact, Eloka described the Hall of Fame as inspiring, especially for young women who can learn from the achievements of female leaders celebrated at the event. “Young women should identify their calling and work on their unique strengths. God’s grace also plays a significant role in achieving success,” she stated.
Another inductee, Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, CEO of Ocean Deep Services Limited, advocated for intentional capacity-building among women, encouraging them to develop their skills in their respective fields. “Women are multifaceted; they are professionals, mothers, caregivers, and, in many cases, breadwinners. It’s time to celebrate their contributions across various sectors,” she said.
The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Mrs. Binta Adamu Bello, represented by Acting Director of Violence Against Persons Tolu Odugbesan, emphasized unity and mutual support among women. “We must stand together, report human trafficking and gender-based violence to NAPTIP, and support the progress of women making impactful contributions to society,” she urged.
Mrs. Temilade Ogunniyi, Managing Partner at Temerity International Experts Limited, highlighted the untapped potential within the digital space for maritime innovations. She encouraged women to explore digital opportunities in the sector, stressing that self-development is essential for seizing future roles in the industry.
