WAYC honours WIMA Nigeria President Nwaeze with Mandela Leadership award
The West Africa Youth Council, (WAYC), has presented the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity to Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, President of Women in Maritime Africa, WIMA Nigeria.
The award ceremony was held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in Lagos, and was attended by maritime stakeholders, youth leaders, women groups, and members of the media.
WAYC said the award recognises individuals whose lives reflect Nelson Mandela’s values of visionary leadership, courage, integrity, resilience, humility, reconciliation and selfless service to humanity and society.
Council leaders stated that after careful review of Nwaeze’s accomplishments, they found her worthy due to her contributions to maritime development and advancement of women and youths.
They described her leadership as a powerful example of combining professionalism with purpose, noting that her achievements are guided by integrity and commitment to national development.
As WIMA Nigeria President, Nwaeze has provided a platform for advancing women’s participation and visibility in the maritime sector across Nigeria and the wider African region.
WAYC noted that her work helps ensure women are not just participants in Africa’s maritime economy, but also leaders, decision-makers, innovators and entrepreneurs shaping the industry’s future.
The Council emphasised that the maritime sector is strategic to Africa’s development, driving trade, jobs, logistics and opportunities within the emerging blue economy across West African nations.
WAYC commended Nwaeze for her commitment to professional development, capacity building, mentorship, gender inclusion and youth empowerment within Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy ecosystem.
The youth body said her example sends a strong message to young women that the maritime industry is a space where they can belong, succeed and lead.
WAYC added that responsible leadership requires visible examples, and Nwaeze demonstrates that success and integrity can coexist while leaving positive impact on people and communities.
Council leaders encouraged her to continue mentoring professionals, supporting women in maritime, and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous African maritime industry.
WAYC congratulated Nwaeze on the honour, describing it as recognition of service and a call to greater responsibility, and prayed for her continued impact across Africa.