The Shippers’ Association of Lagos State (SALS) has elected Mr. Nicodemus Olorunshola Odolo as its new President, following a keenly-contested election which held in Lagos on Thursday. He takes over from Barr. Leonard Ogamba, the former President of the association.
Odolo polled nine votes to defeat Princess (Mrs.) Mulikat Fehintola Sanni, who secured two votes. His election ushers in a new leadership era for SALS, with promises of reforms aimed at strengthening the association’s relevance in the maritime sector.
Other officers returned unopposed include Mrs. Ngozi Modebelu of WACTAF Association as Vice President after Dr. Farinto Collins Kayode stepped down. Mr Ganni Alli Shobande emerged as Secretary General; Wilson Osim as Financial Secretary; and Mr. Ike Nwago as Publicity Secretary.
Barrister Remigius Uche Odoh administered the oath of office to the new executives, while Pastor Jonah Amata served as the Electoral and Returning Officer.
In his acceptance speech, Odolo expressed gratitude to members for their confidence, describing the outcome as a “collective victory.” He stressed the need for unity among members, pledging to run an inclusive administration. “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,” Odolo said.
He outlined his agenda to reposition the association at both national and international levels, giving cargo owners a stronger voice in maritime affairs. Odolo also promised to engage key maritime stakeholders to tackle prolonged delays in cargo clearance, with a target of achieving port release timelines of 12 to 48 hours.
Addressing concerns of past divisions within the association, the new President called for reconciliation and collective action. “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,” he noted.
Members of SALS expressed optimism that the new administration will foster cohesion and enhance the association’s role in shaping Nigeria’s maritime trade environment.
