MAMAL 2026: MARAN Honours NAGAFF President Ezisi as Patron

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN, has honoured the President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, with the prestigious title of Patron in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s maritime industry and humanitarian service.

The investiture took place on Thursday at the Nigerian Air Force Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, during the 4th MARAN Annual Maritime Lecture, MAMAL 2026, which brought together policymakers, regulators, terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, academics and other key players in the maritime sector.

The lecture, themed “Nigeria Ports Modernisation, Charges and the Competitiveness Question,” provided a platform for discussions on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the modernisation and competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports.

Speaking on the significance of the honour, MARAN said the investiture of High Chief Ezisi as Patron is expected to further strengthen the relationship between the association and stakeholders across the freight forwarding and wider maritime community.

MARAN noted that MAMAL has, over the years, provided a credible platform for robust discussions on issues affecting the maritime industry, while also recognising individuals whose contributions promote professionalism and sustainable development.

High Chief Ezisi, a seasoned freight forwarder, has spent decades building capacity, advocating trade facilitation and mentoring young professionals in the industry. Beyond his professional achievements, he is also recognised for his philanthropic activities and support for individuals and communities.

According to MARAN, these contributions informed its decision to confer the Patron title on the NAGAFF President, underscoring the association’s commitment to celebrating excellence, service and positive contributions to the maritime industry.

Dignitaries at the event commended High Chief Ezisi for his dedication to the sector and urged other industry players to emulate his commitment to professionalism, collaboration and nation-building.

With the investiture, MARAN expressed optimism that its relationship with NAGAFF and other freight forwarding associations would be further strengthened towards advancing reforms and improving the competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports.