By Chukwuma Umeorah
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has endorsed a new book on maritime law, describing it as a timely intervention to strengthen Nigeria’s judicial processes and economic development, particularly in the area of international trade.
Speaking at the book presentation in Lagos yesterday, she said the publication would serve as a foundational text that would enhance the judiciary’s capacity to resolve disputes related to trade and shipping efficiently.
Authored by Mfon Ekong Usoro, the book titled, “International Trade and Carriage of Goods by Sea: Text, Cases, and Materials,” presents a practical approach to interpreting legal issues around carriage contracts, cargo liabilities and dispute resolution under both local and international frameworks.
“By simplifying complex concepts through case studies, diagrams and statutory references, the book will strengthen the quality of judicial decisions and enhance legal education in this essential sector. This text is exactly what our legal system needs. It commands respect for local precedents while drawing on legal judgments from other jurisdictions, guiding our courts to a uniform approach and giving our practitioners the confidence to negotiate, mitigate and arbitrate across borders,” she said.
She also highlighted Usoro’s contributions to legal development in Nigeria, noting that the book reflects her years of legal practice and her commitment to institutional improvement.
Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his address, said the book supports ongoing reforms to enhance trade facilitation and infrastructure in Lagos, which handles over 70 percent of Nigeria’s maritime activity.
Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose, Sanwo-Olu, added: “This book will support the work of policymakers and legal professionals involved in improving the state’s commercial and logistics sectors.”
He added that with over 90 percent of Nigeria’s international trade conducted by sea, there is a strong need for clear legal rules that can guide transactions and resolve disputes efficiently.
Founder of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, in his goodwill message, described the book as essential for businesses operating in global trade. “This is the kind of resource that improves certainty in commercial transactions and boosts confidence among business operators,” he stated, praising the author’s contribution to trade and legal practice in Nigeria.
The book, which integrates both local and international legal standards, aims to serve as a reference point for legal professionals, regulators, financial institutions and participants in the trade and shipping industries.
The book reviewer, Adedolapo Akinrele, SAN, described the text as a unique, structured resource, citing over 200 cases, extensive chapters and global conventions to illustrate key concepts in maritime and international trade law. He emphasised its practicality and relevance to both seasoned professionals and new entrants in the legal and commercial sectors.
“The book’s strength lies in its clear exposition of the interplay between shippers, buyers, insurers and other actors in global supply chains. It balances theoretical understanding with real-world application, aligning domestic legal systems with international conventions,” he noted.
He further stated that the publication serves not just as a legal reference but as a strategic tool for industrialisation and trade development in Nigeria and across Africa. “At a time when global trade is undergoing seismic shifts, this book provides the clarity, structure and legal certainty needed to navigate emerging challenges,” he concluded.
The author, Mfon Usoro, thanked those who supported the book, with a special mention to her husband, Paul Usoro, Chairman of Access Bank. Those who graced the event included Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, former Nigeria Port Authoritys managing director, Adebayo Sarumi and FCMB Group CEO, Ladi Balogun, among other key stakeholders from the legal and business sectors.