In the male-dominated world of maritime, few figures shine as brightly or as impactfully as Eunice Ngozi Ezeoke. For over three decades, she has navigated the complex waters of shipping, logistics, and port management, consistently breaking barriers and setting new standards for professionalism and leadership. Eunice’s journey is not just a story of personal achievement—it is a beacon for women aspiring to thrive in sectors historically closed to them, proving that determination and skill can overcome any barrier.
Her story begins with a strong foundation in education. Eunice attended Corona Schools in Lagos, followed by Queen’s School, Enugu, where she cultivated the discipline and resilience that would define her career. She pursued higher education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and complemented her studies with professional and legal training at the Nigerian Law School and the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. This combination of academic excellence and professional preparation provided her with the knowledge, confidence, and versatility to navigate a complex and evolving industry.
Eunice’s professional career took flight at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), where she demonstrated exceptional aptitude and leadership from the outset. Rising steadily through the ranks, she eventually became Port Manager at the Lagos Port Complex, one of Nigeria’s busiest maritime hubs. In this capacity, she was responsible for managing intricate port operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing strategic improvements that enhanced efficiency. Her performance not only earned her respect across the maritime sector but also positioned her as a role model for aspiring women leaders.
Her dedication to empowering women culminated in her election as President of WISTA Nigeria (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association) in 2020. During her tenure, Eunice focused on establishing strong state chapters, streamlining organizational operations through a functional secretariat, and designing programs to encourage women to take on leadership roles. Her presidency marked a significant step toward gender inclusion in the maritime sector, proving that women could excel and lead in a historically male-dominated environment.
Beyond organizational leadership, Eunice has been a formidable voice in maritime advocacy. She has spoken on key issues such as port congestion, maritime security, regulatory reform, and infrastructure development. Drawing from decades of firsthand experience, she has influenced policy discussions and inspired a generation of professionals, particularly women, to envision leadership opportunities within the blue economy. Her thought leadership combines practical insight with a vision for a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable maritime sector.
Recognition of Eunice’s impact has been both national and international. In 2024, she was honored as the Face of Maritime International (FOMI) Role Model Ambassador, celebrating her contributions to the sector and her influence as a mentor. In addition, she serves as Chancellor of the Sechuwariis Development Foundation, Amichi, using her platform to support community development initiatives and empower individuals outside the professional sphere. These roles reflect her commitment not only to industry excellence but also to social responsibility and meaningful community impact.
Eunice Ezeoke’s journey is a testament to vision, resilience, and purposeful leadership. From a determined student to a pioneering maritime professional, she has consistently transformed challenges into opportunities and opened doors for others to follow. Her story embodies the power of perseverance, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of breaking barriers—not just for personal success, but for the empowerment of an entire generation. Eunice remains a guiding light for women in maritime and a symbol of what dedication, skill, and courage can achieve.
