- The late Mrs. Margaret Orakwusi
By Anthony Nwachukwu
Maritime regulators and stakeholders have continued to condole the bereaved family of Mrs. Margaret Orakwusi, eulogising in death, as in her life-time, the industry leader and cabotage ship owner.
In his tribute to Orakwusi, who died on April 28, 2023 during a brief illness, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh, said during his visit to the bereaved family in Lagos that her demise was a huge loss to the maritime sector and the nation at large.
He described Orakwusi as “a leader and industry stakeholder extraordinaire who truly staked her all for the good of the nation’s maritime industry. She was humble and easy to talk to.
“She was brilliant and ever-bubbling with insightful counsel, always on the frontlines and willing to contribute. Her every move and utterance was well-intentioned. Barely asking but always giving!
“Single-handedly taking on the impossible! Barrister Margaret Orakwusi was loved by all. Oh! What a loss? May her memory be a blessing that inspires us all.”
Similarly, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko, described her passing as a “painful loss of a maritime law expert and inspirational figure.”
Extending a condolence message to the bereaved family on behalf of the NPA Board, management and staff, Bello noted that “throughout her distinguished career, Mrs. Orakwusi made significant contributions to the maritime industry, particularly in the area of legal expertise.
“She was widely recognised as an authority in maritime law and her knowledge and skills will remain a reservoir of knowledge for the industry. Her path-finding contributions to the field of maritime law are immeasurable.”
He added: “Mrs. Orakwusi was a true expert in her field, possessing a deep knowledge and uncommon understanding of the complex legal issues that arise in the maritime industry. She was a fierce advocate of equal opportunity.
“In addition to her legal achievements, Barr. Orakwusi was also a passionate advocate for the advancement of women in the workplace. She mentored and inspired countless young women, helping them to realise their full potential.
“Orakwusi’s legacy will also live on in the memories of the countless lives she touched through her philanthropy. She will be remembered not only for her remarkable achievements but also her kindness, generosity and compassion.
“Her contributions to the maritime industry will remain indelible in the annals of the Nigerian Ports Authority. May her impactful soul rest in peace.”
Orakwusi was an amazon in the nation’s maritime sector, playing numerous strategic roles over the decades, including as chairperson, Nigerian Ship-owners Forum, first female president of the Nigerian Trawler Owners Association (NITOA) 2008-2011.
She was also a pioneer co-chairman, Nigerian Fisheries Laboratory – a joint venture between the private sector NITOA and the Federal Government (Ministry of Agriculture), which was established to certify seafood products exported from Nigeria.
The late Orakwusi was a member, Nigerian Bar Association (1985-2023), member, Board of Trustees, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN) 2014-2023, 1st vice-president, Nigerian Ship Owners Association (2014), chairman, Nigeria Maritime Expo (2013-2014), and council member, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (2012-2023), among others.
