By Anthony Nwachukwu
The 2024 edition of Nigeria’s premier maritime sporting event, Ships & Ports Maritime Cup, will kick off to a thrilling spectacle on Tuesday, October 15th as the defending champions, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and 2010 winners, Micura Stevedoring Services, trade tackles in a high-stake opener.
Yet the only competitive sporting event in the Nigerian maritime industry, the 15-year-old tourney, being organised by leading maritime public relations and media firm, Ships & Ports Communication Company, brings together top-tier competitors from both the private and public sectors of the maritime industry.
Officiated by FIFA-badge referees from the Lagos State Referees Council, this edition promises a fierce contest as 11 teams competing in three groups stake talent, sportsmanship and camaraderie from October 15 to November 6 as they bid for the prestigious trophy.
In Group A are the 2009 champions, Nigerian Navy; Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and 2019 champions, ENL Consortium Limited.
Group B comprises five-time champions, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS); APM Terminals, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and Comet Shipping Agencies Nigeria.
In Group C, defending the champions, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), will face 2010 champion, Micura Stevedoring Services, and Trucks Transit Parks (TTP).
Speaking on the essence of the tournament to the Nigerian maritime sector, the Chief Executive Officer of Ships & Ports Communication Company, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, said that “beyond the competition, it serves as a platform to foster unity, teamwork, and collaboration among stakeholders.
“It encourages friendship and networking, promoting a sense of community and cooperation that is crucial for the growth and development of the maritime industry.
“The tournament also provides an opportunity for participants to bond outside their usual work environments, enhancing communication and building stronger relationships across the sector.”
He added that “through the Maritime Cup, players and supporters alike come together in a spirit of healthy competition, further solidifying the sense of togetherness that is vital for the progress of Nigeria’s maritime industry.”
According to Akinola, the tourney serves as a launchpad for young talent, potentially feeding into Nigeria’s national football teams, and by encouraging youth participation in sports, the Maritime Cup promotes healthy lifestyles and develops skills, discipline and sportsmanship among players.
“Ultimately, the Maritime Cup celebrates excellence, recognising and rewarding outstanding football skills while encouraging organisations to strive for excellence in their operations. This convergence of sports, community and industry underscores the Maritime Cup’s vital role in Nigeria’s maritime landscape.”
Meanwhile, at the Maritime Cup draws held at the NPA Club House in Surulere on Wednesday, Head of the Technical Committee, Prince Adesegun Kosoko, emphasised Ships & Ports’ commitment to fair play and entertainment.
The former chairman of Lagos State Referees Council disclosed that “a comprehensive code of conduct has been established to guarantee a thrilling and equitable competition,” and assured participants of strict adherence to FIFA regulations through impartial officiating and transparency in all matches.
Since inception in 2009, the Maritime Cup has grown into a highly anticipated annual event, skipping only 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Past winners included Nigerian Navy (2009), Micura Stevedoring Services (2010), Nigeria Customs Service (2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017), Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (2015), ENL Consortium Limited (2019), and Nigerian Ports Authority (2018, 2022, 2023).
