Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has commended a newly launched book on maritime law as a vital intervention to advance Nigeria’s judicial capacity and economic development through improved trade and dispute resolution systems.

Speaking at the official launch of the book in Lagos yesterday, Justice Kekere-Ekun described the work—“International Trade and Carriage of Goods by Sea: Text, Cases, and Materials”—authored by maritime law expert Mfon Ekong Usoro, as a landmark text that bridges legal theory and practical application in international trade and shipping law.

“This book will strengthen the quality of judicial decisions and enhance legal education in this essential sector,” she said. “It simplifies complex concepts through case studies, diagrams, and statutory references, helping our courts adopt a uniform approach and boosting the confidence of our legal practitioners to arbitrate and negotiate globally.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun also praised the author’s deep contributions to Nigeria’s legal development, noting that the text reflects decades of practice and institutional insight.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose, highlighted the book’s role in supporting ongoing trade reforms and infrastructure upgrades in Lagos, which handles over 70 percent of Nigeria’s maritime commerce.

“This book will assist policymakers and professionals seeking to streamline the commercial and logistics environment in Lagos,” Ambrose said.

He emphasized that with over 90 percent of Nigeria’s international trade conducted via sea routes, there is an urgent need for clear, enforceable legal frameworks to guide transactions and resolve conflicts efficiently.

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, in a goodwill message, described the publication as “essential for businesses engaged in global trade,” noting that it will “boost confidence in cross-border transactions” and support commercial certainty.

The book, structured to serve legal practitioners, regulators, financial institutions, and logistics professionals, merges local jurisprudence with international legal standards, providing a comprehensive reference for maritime and international trade law.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Adedolapo Akinrele, who reviewed the book, called it a “unique, structured resource” that cites over 200 legal cases, global conventions, and practical insights.

“Its strength lies in clearly showing how shippers, buyers, insurers, and stakeholders interact across global supply chains,” Akinrele said.
“It balances academic rigour with real-world application, making it invaluable to professionals and students alike.”

Akinrele further noted that the text aligns domestic legal systems with global standards and provides “the clarity, structure, and legal certainty needed to navigate the shifting terrain of international commerce.”

In her closing remarks, Mfon Usoro expressed gratitude to the dignitaries present and dedicated the book to all who have supported her legal journey, including her husband, Paul Usoro, SAN, Chairman of Access Bank.

Other notable attendees included Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno; former Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority, Adebayo Sarumi; and FCMB Group CEO, Ladi Balogun, alongside prominent stakeholders from the maritime, banking, and legal sectors.

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