Former Executive Director, Marine and Operations of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Captain Olugbenga Abidoye, has celebrated veteran shipowner and founding President of the Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA), Chief Isaac Jolapamo, as he marks his 80th birthday, recognising his decades of leadership, advocacy and contributions to the growth of indigenous shipping in Nigeria.
In a congratulatory message, Captain Abidoye, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Maylon Ports & Marine Services Limited, described Jolapamo as an exceptional industry leader and trailblazer whose influence has left an enduring mark on Nigeria’s maritime and economic landscape.
He said the milestone was particularly significant, given the octogenarian’s longstanding commitment to building local capacity, promoting indigenous participation in shipping and strengthening the maritime business environment. The Master Mariner noted that Jolapamo’s contributions went beyond establishing and growing businesses, describing him as one of the industry figures whose advocacy and leadership helped lay the foundations for the development of indigenous shipping companies in Nigeria.
“Your footprints are permanently etched in the sands of our nation’s maritime history,” Captain Abidoye said in his tribute, adding that Jolapamo’s legacy continued to serve as a beacon of inspiration for younger maritime professionals.