The Shippers’ Association of Lagos State (SALS) has elected Mr Nicodemus Olorunshola Odolo as its new President, in what observers described as a keenly contested election held in Lagos. Odolo succeeds Barr. Leonard Ogamba signalled the dawn of a leadership geared toward reform, unity, and a stronger voice for cargo owners in the maritime sector.

An Inclusive Agenda

• Election result: Odolo won with nine votes, defeating Princess (Mrs.) Mulikat Fehintola Sanni, who garnered two votes.
• Leadership transition: The election brings in new leadership aimed at strengthening SALS’s relevance both nationally and internationally.
• Immediate focus: Odolo’s acceptance speech outlined a clear agenda to reposition the association’s influence in maritime affairs and to secure swifter cargo clearance at port gates.

In his first public remarks as President, Odolo described the outcome as a “collective victory” for SALS members. He emphasised unity and inclusivity, promising an administration that leaves no member behind.

“This victory belongs to all of us. It is testimony to the power of unity and cooperation, and I believe that together we can achieve great things.”

 A Vision for National and International Engagement

Odolo’s plan centres on repositioning SALS to play a more significant role beyond Lagos, extending its influence at the national and international levels. A key aspect of his vision is to give cargo owners a stronger voice in maritime affairs, ensuring their needs and concerns are front and center in policy conversations and operational decisions.

Additionally, Odolo expressed intent to actively engage key maritime stakeholders to address persistent delays in cargo clearance. A concrete target has been set to streamline port release timelines to between 12 and 48 hours, a move that could dramatically improve efficiency and reduce costs for shippers.

Leadership Team: Strengthening the Ranks

The newly elected officers, many of whom were returned unopposed, include:

• Vice President: Mrs Ngozi Modebelu (WACTAF Association)
• Secretary General: Mr Ganni Alli Shobande
• Financial Secretary: Wilson Osim
• Publicity Secretary: Mr Ike Nwago

ODODO’s administration will work alongside these officers to deliver a cohesive, results-oriented leadership that aims to unify the association and enhance its effectiveness in the sector.

Oath of Office: A Moment of Formal Commitment

Barrister Remigius Uche Odoh administered the oath of office to the new executives, with Pastor Jonah Amata serving as Electoral and Returning Officer. The formal swearing-in underscores SALS’s commitment to lawful, transparent leadership and accountability.

Odolo acknowledged historical divisions within the association and called for reconciliation and collective action. He stressed that differences in policies or perspectives can be resolved through dialogue and unity.

“There may be differences in understanding concerning policies or issues, but when we sit together, we find unity. What happened this afternoon is proof of that unity.”

Members of SALS have responded with optimism, expressing confidence that the new administration will foster cohesion and strengthen SALS’s role in Nigeria’s maritime trade environment.

What This Means for Shippers and the Lagos Maritime Ecosystem

• Faster cargo processing: The commitment to 12–48 hour port release timelines could substantially reduce dwell times and costs for shippers.
• Stronger advocacy: A repositioned SALS with a louder, clearer voice in maritime policy and stakeholder engagement.
• Unified leadership: A more cohesive executive team focused on implementation and results.

Odolo’s election marks a pivotal moment for SALS. With a mandate centred on unity, reform, and enhanced stakeholder engagement, the association appears poised to elevate its relevance in the wider maritime sector. If the administration can translate these plans into tangible improvements in port clearance times and stakeholder collaboration, SALS could set a new standard for shipper associations across Nigeria.

For readers following Lagos’s maritime developments, this is a story to watch—an inflexion point that could reshape how cargo owners, port authorities, and logistics providers collaborate for faster, more predictable outcomes.