In a landmark event held at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, legal and industry leaders gathered to celebrate the launch of Mfon Ekong Usoro’s new book titled “International Trade and Carriage of Goods by Sea: Text, Cases, and Materials.” Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, hailed the publication as a vital tool for Nigeria’s economic advancement, particularly in international trade and maritime law. She emphasized its importance in bridging legal theory with real-world applications, noting that the book will enhance trade dispute resolution and judicial quality.
Justice Kekere-Ekun explained that the book simplifies complex maritime legal concepts using case studies, statutory references, and diagrams, making it accessible to legal professionals and judicial officers. She added that the work commands respect for local legal precedents while incorporating global judicial insights, fostering a uniform approach to international trade arbitration.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment, also praised the timely publication. He highlighted the critical role of legal frameworks in Lagos’s efforts to position itself as a global maritime hub. With Lagos handling over 70% of Nigeria’s import and export traffic, he stressed the importance of strong legal structures for efficient maritime operations.
Business tycoon Aliko Dangote also commended Usoro’s work, calling it an invaluable resource for strengthening commercial transactions and boosting confidence in the maritime sector. He pointed out that the book’s thorough exploration of documentary credits and letters of credit would play a crucial role in financial operations within international trade.
The book received high praise from Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dolapo Akinrele, who noted that it serves as more than just a reference; it’s a guide to navigating the complexities of international trade law. He commended its clarity in addressing the intersections of commerce, sea transport, banking, and insurance.
Author Mfon Usoro expressed her belief that the book would provide essential insights for professionals, from bankers to judges, especially regarding the documentary credits payment system in international trade.
The book launch was attended by notable figures such as Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, former Court of Appeal President Justice Umaru Abdullahi, and former NPA Managing Director Adebayo Sarumi, further underscoring its significance to Nigeria’s legal and trade sectors. The event highlighted the importance of Usoro’s work in shaping the future of maritime law and advancing Nigeria’s standing in global trade.
