Oba Oniru backs WISTA-Nigeria maritime conference, confirms attendance
His Royal Majesty, the Oniru of Iru community in Lagos State, Oba Abdul-Wasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, has pledged support for Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria.
The traditional ruler expressed delight while receiving delegates from the WISTA-Nigeria. The delegation, led by WISTA Nigeria President, Dr Odunayo Ani, visited the palace on Wednesday.
Oba Lawal promised to attend the 8th WISTA Africa Regional Conference scheduled for Lagos in June 2026.
He said his decision reflected Iruland’s historic connection with waterways and maritime activities.
“My ancestors lived and thrived on water, and about 80 per cent of our traditional business remains connected to waterways,” he said.
The traditional ruler said the Iru community would continue supporting maritime development and the blue economy.
He described the conference as an opportunity for Nigeria to showcase its maritime achievements.
The Oba recalled the contributions of his forebears during the colonial era toward Lagos’ maritime growth.
He identified Eyin-Igbeti as a historic location where waterborne shipment of goods began in earlier times.
The traditional ruler praised the Lagos State Government for supporting initiatives connected to the maritime sector.
“The duty of the Oniru is to ensure the ocean and lagoon remain peaceful spiritually.
“Whatever happens on the waterfront, we receive our royalty. That is why we champion waterfront issues,” he said.
Oba Lawal noted that Bar Beach was once a major centre for trade, commerce, transport and tourism.
He said the waterfront remained central to Iru’s identity and economic activities.
His royal majesty assured WISTA-Nigeria of his presence and support during the regional conference.
Oba Lawal also commended the passion and vital role played by a Hon. Violet Williams, in reviving Lagos’ maritime history and encouraging students to pursue careers in the sector.
The Oba also commended the Chairman of the WISTA regional Conference Dr Oma Ofodile, for appreciating him noting that the presence of WISTA delegates was further proof that the ocean and lagoon front belong to Oniru.
“I will facilitate participation from foreign and local business people and encourage more royal fathers to attend,” he said.
Oba Lawal said his kingdom established the Oniru Business and Cultural Day in 2025.
He added that the Iru Business Network was created to strengthen business opportunities within the community.
The Oba disclosed that the palace had engaged hospitality operators and the Indian business community.
He said the Indian community maintained strong relations with Nigerians and would be hosted soon.
Oba Lawal pledged to involve WISTA Nigeria in future business forums within Iruland.
He said the initiative would expose youths to maritime operations and global shipping opportunities.
The traditional ruler urged WISTA executives to collaborate with his kingdom on Blue Economy development.
He noted that youth participation was limited mainly by inadequate access to opportunities.
Oba Lawal revealed that he sent a proposal to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, calling for the establishment of a Lagos Coastal Community Development Commission.
“About nine local governments are bordered by water, yet communities do not feel the impact,” he said.
He listed areas including Badagry, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, Apapa, Lagos Island, Eti-Osa, Lekki and Epe.
He noted the presence of major facilities such as ports, refineries and free trade zones.
“We have Dangote Refinery, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Apapa Port and Tin-Can Island Port.
“Yet we do not feel the impact. We are doing much to suppress community agitation,” he said.
Earlier, WISTA Nigeria President, Dr Odunayo Ani said the delegation visited to brief the traditional ruler on the upcoming conference.
She said the event would hold from June 25 to 26, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites.
Ani described WISTA as a global organisation empowering women in maritime, shipping and trade.
She said the association operates across more than 60 countries worldwide.
The conference theme is: ‘From Policy to Implementation: Women Advancing Africa’s Blue Economy.’
Ani said the event would attract policymakers, investors, maritime leaders and professionals.
She added that delegates would experience Lagos and Oniru Kingdom’s maritime heritage.
The delegation sought the traditional ruler’s endorsement, goodwill message, blessings and attendance.
Among the delegates were Secretary of WISTA Nigeria, Mrs Lilian Nneji; Assistant Treasurer, Hajia Aisha Cole; the Vice President Women in Shipping Africa (WIMAFRICA), Mrs Ogunniyi Temilade Madam Blessing; consultants Mr Deji and Mr Sam, among others.