Macfoy Hands Over WIMAFRICA Nigeria Leadership to Nwaeze
The President of Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAFRICA), Nigeria Chapter, Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, on Friday formally handed over leadership of the association to Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, marking the end of her tenures.
The handover ceremony took place at Rock View Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, after a peaceful and well-attended Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association.
The AGM was described by members as remarkable, as all the executives of the association were elected unopposed, reflecting internal harmony and unity among members.
Macfoy, who now assumes the status of Emeritus President of WIMAFRICA Nigeria, was commended for her leadership style anchored on peace, collaboration, sisterhood and transparency.
Members noted that her tenure was devoid of rancour and scandals, while the association experienced stability and growth under her stewardship.
Speaking at the event, Macfoy said her tenure had shown that institutions could thrive when women lead with humility, faith and a shared sense of purpose.
She thanked God Almighty, the ambassadors, mentors and members of the Executive Council, whom she described as a united team that worked together without bitterness or internal conflict.
Macfoy, who currently serves as the Continental Vice President of WIMAFRICA, assured members that she would continue to support the Nigeria chapter in an advisory capacity.
She urged the newly elected executives to remain united and always place the interest of the association above personal considerations in order to achieve greater success.
In her acceptance speech, the newly elected President, Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by her predecessor.
Nwaeze said her administration would focus on empowerment, innovation, collaboration and visibility, adding that her leadership would be driven by impact rather than titles.
She said the new executive council would prioritise capacity building, digital transformation and skills development within the blue economy sector.
According to her, the vision of the new leadership is to expand the association’s presence beyond Lagos to other states, while strengthening national and continental engagements.
The former Continental President of WIMAFRICA, Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), who administered the oath of office, advised the new executives to respect their positions and work collaboratively.
Also speaking, the President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, pledged to strengthen collaboration between WISTA Nigeria and WIMAFRICA to advance women’s participation in the maritime sector.
The event witnessed several maritime Amazon’s including; the President of Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere SAN; Co-Founder of Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFFHA), Chief (Mrs.) Carol Ufere; President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Odunayo Ani; Managing Director of Hudson Gee Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Gloria Kanabe; President Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, A maritime Guru who operates Bonded Terminal, Mrs Affi Ibanga, Ship captains among others.
