By Abbas Nazil
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has extolled the crucial role maritime law plays in global commerce, noting that over 90 percent of international trade is carried out via sea routes.
Speaking at the official launch of a new legal textbook authored by maritime law expert Mfon Ekong Usoro, Sanwo-Olu stressed that maritime law has grown beyond a niche area to become a fundamental pillar of sovereign competitiveness in today’s global economy.
Represented by Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the governor said Lagos, which handles over 70 percent of Nigeria’s import and export traffic, is actively positioning itself as a global maritime hub.
Projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the planned redevelopment of Tin Can Island Port reflect this ambition, he said.
According to him, the true value of ports and trade corridors lies not only in physical infrastructure but in the legal frameworks that ensure order, safety, and economic value.
The occasion was the unveiling of Usoro’s new 576-page book titled International Trade and Carriage of Goods by Sea: Texts, Cases and Materials, a comprehensive work composed of nine chapters.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno; former President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Umaru Abdullahi; and President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, among others.
Sanwo-Olu commended Usoro’s career achievements, describing her as a foundational figure in maritime law, having served as the first Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and as a respected reformer and educator.
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He referred to her as someone who laid the foundation for maritime safety, trade efficiency, and legal reliability in Nigeria.
Aliko Dangote also underscored the significance of the book, especially its detailed examination of documentary credits and letters of credit, which are vital instruments in international trade finance.
He noted that the publication will serve as an essential resource for stakeholders in the maritime and legal sectors.
In her remarks, Usoro expressed heartfelt appreciation to the guests and described the book as her enduring legacy. She voiced hope that it will drive transformation in maritime education and practice in Nigeria and beyond.
Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun lauded the work as both academically rich and practically essential. She praised Usoro for her mentorship and inspiration to younger generations, especially women.
The book, she said, consolidates domestic laws, international conventions, and global maritime practices into a singular, cohesive legal reference.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria Dolapo Akinrele, who reviewed the book, acknowledged its depth, clarity, and usefulness for legal practitioners.
He emphasized that the publication bridges the gap between legal theory and real-world application, offering critical insights into the intersections of commerce, sea transport, finance, and insurance.
According to him, this kind of legal scholarship is key to enabling Nigeria’s emergence as a leading force in Africa’s maritime sector.
Akinrele noted that the predictability and reliability of legal frameworks are vital for fostering business confidence and enhancing Nigeria’s global trade participation.
