At Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference : UNILAG Begs for Slots for Students Internship in Marine, Blue Economy Sector
Group photograph of participants at the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference at UNILAG on Friday
By DAPO OLAWUNI
The Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, Prof Abiola Sani SAN has appealed to federal government agencies in the marine and blue economy sector, as well as private companies, to provide internship slots for students of the university, in order to bridge the gap between theory and practical teachings.
Prof Sani made the appeal at the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference (TAAM 7.0) held on Friday at the Tayo Aderinokun Hall, University of Lagos, Akoka.
The theme for the 2025 edition of the conference is tagged “Blue Economy Innovations: The Sustainable Impact of Infrastructure Development and Modernization in Maritime,”
The TAAM, sponsored by SIFAX Group and organised by The Maritime Forum, UNILAG, is established to connect students, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Speaking at this year’s edition, Prof Sani said for a sustainance of the legacy that hs been established by Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group, by ensuring that students churned out of the faculty and its maritime institute are given a space to experience firsthand, what they have been taught in class.
“We are appealing to agencies and companies in the marine and blue economy sector, NPA NIWA, NIMASA, Nigerian Shippers Council and others for our students to come and spend time in these organisations in order for us to bridge the gap between theory and practical.
Also most importantly, this will get their imaginations fired up with what they see, a week interaction with the sector can always change their lifestyle and focus.
“I don’t want this to be adhoc, we would be approaching you with proposals on how to structure it so that it can be sustainable, we want to do this so that it can be part of the enduring legacy of what Dr Taiwo Afolabi started seven years ago” he said
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who was represented at the event by Dr. Mercy Ilori Olanike, Director of Maritime Services outlined sweeping reforms by the ministry designed to upgrade port infrastructure, digitalize operations, and position Nigeria as a global maritime leader.
He called on Nigerian universities and young professionals to spearhead research into emerging technologies like marine robotics, which he sees as pivotal for underwater surveillance and ocean data gathering.
He pledged collaboration with academia and innovation hubs to create indigenous tech solutions.
“To this end, I urge our universities and young professionals to drive local research and development in this area. The Ministry is eager to engage with academia and innovation hubs to co-create solutions. We welcome partnerships that can accelerate knowledge transfer, industry application, and indigenous innovation” the Minister stated
Oyetola also paid a special tribute to Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, saying that his legacy in business and youth development has continued to inspire excellence in the marine and blue economy sector.
“His vision reflects the important role of private sector leadership in driving innovation and economic transformation” he said
He reaffirmed that the Ministry is committed to a maritime future that is resilient, inclusive, technologically advanced, environmentally responsible, and globally competitive.
“By fostering strong collaboration among academia, industry, and government, we can collectively turn this vision into reality” he said
Earlier, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group and convener of the conference represented by Mrs. Wunmi Eniola-Jegede called for urgent investments in modern, resilient infrastructure to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy potential.
He emphasized the country’s coastline as a springboard for job creation, global trade competitiveness, and foreign investment.
Delivering a keynote address, Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), Vice President of the Port Consultative Council (PCC), stressed the need for smart, green, and inclusive port systems that balance economic goals with environmental sustainability.
She urged young people to see themselves as architects of a greener maritime future.
In his welcome speech, Aderounmu Enoch Adewunmi, President of the University of Lagos Maritime Forum, encouraged students to embrace leadership now, not later.
He highlighted the Forum’s decade-long impact through mentorship, internships, and programs like the Maritime Masterclass and the Jean Chiazor National Essay Competition.
