The Mission to Seafarers (MTS) Lagos has honoured Princess Vicky Haastrup, Chairman of Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), for her selfless contributions to supporting its activities and lending a helping hand to seafarers visiting the country. The honour was bestowed upon Haastrup at the annual Sea Sunday service held at All Souls Anglican Church, Lekki, Lagos, with the theme “The Unfailing Love of God at Sea”.
MTS also recognised Mohammed Bello-Koko, former Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA); Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of Sifax Group; Mrs Funke Agbor (SAN), President of Nigerian Maritime Law Association; and Mrs Jean Chiazor-Anishere (SAN), a maritime lawyer.
Speaking at the event, Chief Adebayo Sarumi, Chairman of MTS Lagos, said: “The Mission to Seafarers Lagos has a cherished history dating back to 1914. Our centre in Lagos provides ship visits, centre visits, and coordinates other aspects that support seafarers’ welfare. We exist to provide succour, hope, and relief to seafarers.”
He added that MTS Lagos honoured Haastrup and others for their continuous selfless contributions and partnerships, “walking the talk with us in mitigating institutional, logistical, infrastructural, and operational challenges”.
Reverend Canon Francis Aduroja, Chaplain of Mission to Seafarers Lagos, noted that seafarers are remembered for keeping the global economy moving and that the MTS facility at Apapa has been upgraded for recreational purposes.
Responding to the award, Princess Vicky Haastrup said: “I feel elated because this is a mission I have supported for over a decade. It is a cause I am passionate about, and it requires the support of all who work within the maritime domain.”