For a decade, the Annual Maritime Students and Youth Conference (AMSAY), popularly known as A Day With Nigerian Maritime Students, has remained a powerful force in shaping conversations within Nigeria’s maritime industry while inspiring a new generation of maritime professionals. What began in 2016 as a modest gathering of students and stakeholders has evolved into one of the most influential youth-focused maritime platforms in the country.
As the conference marks its historic 10th anniversary in 2026, the organisers — Platforms Communications and the AMSAY Central Planning Committee — have chosen the fitting theme, “A Decade of AMSAY Conference: Eyes on the Horizon.” The theme not only celebrates ten years of consistency and impact but also reflects the conference’s growing vision for the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector and the role young people will play in shaping it.
Since its inception, AMSAY has served as a bridge between industry leaders and aspiring maritime professionals, creating a platform where ideas are exchanged, policies debated, opportunities explored and careers inspired. Through thought-provoking paper presentations, mentorship sessions, panel discussions and networking opportunities, the conference has consistently addressed pressing issues affecting the maritime industry while equipping youths with knowledge, competence and direction.
The maiden edition held in Lagos in 2016 laid a strong foundation for the conference’s future success. Industry experts opened discussions on maritime development, shipping regulations, the lessons from the collapse of the Nigerian National Shipping Line (NNSL), and the importance of integrity in building a successful maritime career. Those early conversations immediately positioned AMSAY as more than just a student gathering, but a serious intellectual platform focused on the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Over the years, the conference expanded its focus to include entrepreneurship, maritime education, cabotage opportunities, local content, blue economy prospects, environmental sustainability, automation, digitalisation and global competitiveness for Nigerian seafarers. Distinguished maritime personalities such as Late Hon. Dr. Chris Asoluka, Barr. Temisan Omatseye, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, Dr. Emeka Akabogu (SAN), Capt. Segun Enitan and several other respected industry experts have graced the platform, mentoring students and exposing them to practical realities and opportunities within the sector.
Beyond intellectual discussions, AMSAY has continued to evolve into a complete youth development platform. The introduction of initiatives such as the Best Graduating Maritime Students Awards (BEGMASA) and the integration of Fola Ojutalayo’s Annual Maritime Speech-Making Competition further strengthened the conference’s commitment to rewarding excellence, building confidence and nurturing leadership among maritime students and cadets.
Following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the conference returned stronger in 2021 with renewed attention on the blue economy and Nigeria’s place in global maritime trade. Since then, discussions have increasingly focused on contemporary realities such as greener shipping, sustainable marine environments, job creation, and the impact of technology on maritime operations. These conversations have helped broaden the understanding of students and young professionals, preparing them for the rapidly changing global maritime landscape.
As preparations intensify for the landmark 2026 edition, expectations are high for another impactful gathering. This year’s lead presentation, “The Youth and the Future of Nigerian Maritime Sector: Understanding How Nations Develop Their Maritime Sector,” to be delivered by Capt. Warredi Enisuoh, is expected to inspire participants with practical insights into how Nigeria can build a stronger maritime economy through youth inclusion, innovation and strategic development.
After ten remarkable years, AMSAY Conference has undoubtedly become more than an annual event. It has grown into a movement for knowledge-sharing, mentorship, advocacy and youth empowerment within Nigeria’s maritime industry. Through consistent engagement and visionary conversations, the platform has helped shape maritime discourse, influenced industry thinking, built capacity among young professionals and inspired countless students to pursue meaningful careers in the sector.
As the conference enters its second decade, one thing remains certain — AMSAY is not only reflecting on its achievements but also setting its sights firmly on the future, with eyes truly fixed on the horizon.
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