About Us
About SOAN
The Shipowners Association of Nigeria, comprise ship owning companies with proven track record of activities in the industry recognized by Upstream and Downstream Sectors of the Shipping industry as well as by the Private and Public Sectors of the Industry.
The Association is duly registered with the Nigeria Corporate Affairs Commission with Registration Number RC: 75407 and has a credible Board of Trustees.
The Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN) is a member of Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) as a Strategic Partner.
Vision
To lead Nigeria to self-sustenance in the maritime industry.
Mission
To improve the Maritime and Shipping Industry to the benefit of SOAN members, Stakeholders, the Industry and the Country at large.
Objectives
1
Promote the interest of Members and to provide a forum for dialogue between Nigerian Shipowners among themselves and with any other interests on topical issues, policies and practices pertaining to the business of Ship ownership and management.
2
Facilitate participation of Nigerian Shipowners in International Maritime Organization (IMO) and any other international forum on shipping matters through effective representation in such meetings.
3
Cultivate good relations with the Government and maritime authorities especially in formulating policies/regulation on national shipping and maritime activities.
4
Vigorously pursue the training, re-training, employment and welfare of Nigerian seafarers on board Nigerian-owned vessels.
5
Contribute to the development of shipping and maritime industry by promoting, encouraging, supporting and patronizing shipbuilding and ship repair yards located in and owned by Nigerians.
Promote indigenous participation in the maritime sector.
Advocate for enabling maritime policies and regulatory reforms.
Serve as a liaison between members and government agencies.
Our Mandate
Strengthen Nigeria’s position in global shipping and trade.
Facilitate investment and capacity building opportunities.
Key Focus Areas
Partner with government agencies, regulators, and legislative bodies to influence maritime policy and promote indigenous capacity.
Facilitate domestic and international collaborations that enhance shipping operations, safety, financing, training, and innovation
Through targeted training, mentorship, and professional development programs, we invest in the next generation of seafarers, managers, and technical officers.
Support members with advisory services on regulatory compliance, shipping finance, maritime law, safety, and environmental standards.
Notable Achievements
- Landmark Judgement invalidating the Coastal Vessel License scheme for non-petroleum vessels.
- Secured restraining order stopping EFCC harassment of private maritime security companies.
- Affirmed the legitimacy of Private Maritime Security Companies’ role in national oil security.
- Successfully negotiated zero duty for vessels of certain gross tonnage.
- Achieved National Assembly approval for CVFF payments.
- Engaged Key Industry Stakeholders and Regulators to shape policies, secure industry opportunities, and advance objectives.
- Successfully negotiated with NNPC to prioritize Nigerian companies for tanker ship opportunities.
- Partnered with training institutions to enhance seafarer training for upcoming cadets.
- Established a national database to prevent rehiring of blacklisted seafarers.
- Developed a database of female seafarers and cadets to support training and job placement within member companies.
- Organized and hosted the inaugural Lagos International Shipping EXPO (LISE 2019).
- Held annual AGMs presenting audited accounts since inception.
- Increased membership from 27 in 2019 to 70 by March 31, 2025.
Impact Numbers At A Glance
+159%
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
70+
LICENSED SHIP OWNERS
1st
MARITIME EXPO LEADER
ZERO
DUTY FREE EXPANSIONS ACHIEVED
12+
Policy and Regulatory Reforms Influenced
3
NATIONAL DATABASES CREATED