Alhaji Aminu Umar named first African Director on ICS Board

Alhaji Aminu Umar, President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, has been appointed as the first African Director on the Board of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).

This historic appointment is a significant achievement for Nigeria’s maritime sector and is expected to enhance Nigeria’s influence in international maritime policy discussions and decisions.

Umar’s appointment, according to the statement, to the ICS board underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and leadership within the international maritime community.

With his vast experience and strategic vision, Umar is poised to contribute immensely to the ICS’s mission of promoting and representing the global shipping industry.

In a statement, Aminu Umar expressed his gratitude for the appointment, stating, “I am honoured to represent Nigeria and contribute to the global efforts of the International Chamber of Shipping. This appointment is a testament to the potential and capabilities of Nigeria’s maritime sector.”

Furthermore, the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping has emphasised the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders and government bodies, particularly the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

This collaboration aims to facilitate Nigeria’s deserving seat at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The synergies between the ICS and IMO are critical, as the ICS holds consultative/advisory status at the IMO, enabling it to influence and shape international maritime policies that impact Nigeria and the global shipping industry.

The Nigerian Chamber of Shipping is the leading organisation representing the interest of the Nigerian maritime industry. Established to promote and advance the development of shipping, maritime infrastructure, and services in Nigeria, the Chamber plays a crucial role in advocating policies that enhance the competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime sector globally. It remains committed to advancing the interests of Nigerian shipping companies, promoting safety and sustainability in maritime operations, and fostering partnerships that enhance Nigeria’s maritime presence globally.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) stands as a cornerstone institution in the global maritime industry, representing over 80% of the world’s merchant fleet. Established in 1921, the ICS plays a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of shipowners and operators on an international scale. ICS works tirelessly to promote the highest standards of safety, environmental stewardship, and operational efficiency in shipping.

At the core of its mission, the ICS serves as a respected voice within international regulatory bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where it holds significant consultative/advisory status. This allows the ICS to influence and shape maritime policies and regulations that impact the industry worldwide. Beyond regulatory advocacy, the ICS provides invaluable support to its members through guidance on technical and operational matters, fostering best practices that enhance both safety at sea and sustainability in maritime operations. In navigating the complexities of global trade and shipping, the ICS remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the interests of its members while promoting a responsible and thriving maritime sector.

Aminu has called for collaboration with all stakeholders towards optimising Nigeria’s global presence at the international Chamber of Shipping.