Nigeria at 66: WIMA President Nwaeze Advocates Unity, Integrity, Responsible Citizenship

Calls for Greater Women Participation in Nigeria’s Blue Economy

ZAINAB JUNAID

The President of Women in Maritime in Nigeria (WIMA Nigeria), Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, has called for greater participation of women in Nigeria’s maritime sector, particularly Nigeria’s blue economy, as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

Nwaeze said women in the maritime sector must take advantage of available opportunities, break barriers and contribute actively to the nation’s economic development.

The WIMA President made the call in her Independence Day message, where she also urged Nigerians to embrace unity, integrity, hard work and responsible citizenship as part of efforts to build a stronger nation.

According to her Nigerians need to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their commitment to unity, integrity, hard work and responsible citizenship.

 

Despite Nigeria’s journey earmarked with challenges since independence, WIMA President said it is also characterised by the resilience, creativity, courage and determination of its people.

She described Independence Day as more than a date on the calendar, stressing it is an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, remember the sacrifices of those who came before and take responsibility for building the nation they desire.

“Our journey has not always been easy, but through every difficult season, Nigerians have continued to demonstrate courage, creativity, enterprise and an extraordinary ability to rise again.”

While highlighting the enormous opportunities available in Nigeria’s maritime sector, particularly the Blue Economy, she stressed that women must be active participants in harnessing the sector’s potential for national development.

“As women in maritime, we understand that progress requires courage to sail into new waters. We must continue to break barriers, create opportunities, support one another and ensure that women are fully represented in the economic development of our nation,” she said.

The WIMA President urged members of the association and Nigerians generally to embrace unity and work towards creating opportunities rather than waiting for them.

She said the responsibility for building a better Nigeria extends beyond government, noting that citizens also have important roles to play through their actions in their homes, workplaces, communities and institutions.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Its future will be shaped not only by the government , but by the choices we make every day.”

Nwaeze called for a Nigeria where citizens build bridges rather than walls and where opportunities are created for present and future generations.

She reaffirmed WIMA Nigeria’s commitment to supporting women’s participation in the maritime sector and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable Nigerian economy.

She concluded urging Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the nation’s founding generation by working towards the Nigeria they envisioned.

Her words, “May our nation continue to grow in peace, strength and prosperity. May the sacrifices of those who came before us never be forgotten, and may we have the wisdom and courage to build the Nigeria they dreamed of.

“Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!”