The highly anticipated 2024 Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Competition, Nigeria’s premier maritime sporting event, is set to commence on Oct. 15 in Lagos.
The defending champions Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and 2010 winners Micura Stevedoring Services will face off in the opening match.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition is organised by leading maritime public relations and media firm, Ships & Ports Communications Company.
It brings together top-tier companies and government agencies from both the private and public sectors, making it the only competitive sporting event in the Nigerian maritime industry.
To be officiated by FIFA-badge referees from the Lagos State Referees Council, the 15-year-old tournament will be fiercely contested by participating teams .
The competition will run from Oct. 15 to Nov.6 during which no fewer than 11 teams would be competing for the championship trophy.
Group A has the 2009 champions Nigerian Navy, Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL), the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and 2019 champions ENL Consortium Limited.
Group B comprises five-time champions Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), APM Terminals, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and Comet Shipping Agencies Nigeria.
In Group C, defending champions Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will face off with 2010 champions Micura Stevedoring Services and Trucks Transit Parks (TTP).
The CEO of Ships & Ports Communication Company, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, said the importance of the Maritime Cup competition to the Nigerian maritime sector could not be overstated.
“Beyond the competition, it serves as a platform to foster unity, teamwork, and collaboration among stakeholders.
“It encourages friendship and networking, promoting a sense of community and cooperation that is crucial for the growth and development of the maritime industry.
“The tournament also provides an opportunity for participants to bond outside of their usual work environments, enhancing communication and building stronger relationships.
“Through the Maritime Cup, players and supporters alike come together in a spirit of healthy competition, further solidifying the sense of togetherness,” Akinola said.
Akinola added that the competition served as a launchpad for young talents, potentially feeding into Nigeria’s national football teams.
He said by encouraging youth participation in sports, the Maritime Cup promotes healthy lifestyles and develops skills, discipline, and sportsmanship among players.
“Ultimately, the Maritime Cup celebrates excellence, recognizing and rewarding outstanding football skills while encouraging organisations to strive for excellence in their operations.
“This convergence of sports, community, and industry underscores the Maritime Cup’s vital role in Nigeria’s maritime landscape,”Akinola said.
