The Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup has commiserated with the family of late Otunba Kunle Folarin who died in Lagos on Tuesday at the age of 82.
Until his death, Otunba Folarin was the Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC) and Chairman of the National Seafarers Welfare Board (NSWB).
In a statement released by the association on Thursday, the STOAN Chairman described the late Otunba Folarin as a “maritime colossus” who made “significant impact” across various sections of the maritime industry.
“I am truly saddened by the death of this great man. Otunba Kunle Folarin’s exit at this time will create a great vacuum in the maritime community.
“He was an accomplished maritime expert and administrator, and a repository of maritime knowledge. His death will be felt far beyond the maritime industry,” Haastrup said.
The STOAN Chairman urged the family to take solace in the understanding that their late patriarch lived a fulfilled life and contributed enormously to the development of the maritime industry and the country.
“Otunba Folarin was steadfast in his service to the maritime industry having served in one of the most senior management positions in Alraine Shipping. He later devoted his life to the wellbeing of seafarers through his selfless and unparalleled service as Chairman of the National Seafarers Welfare Board (NSWB) and also as Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC). The role he played in the maritime industry will remain indelible for many generations to come,” she said, even as she prayed that God Almighty grants his soul eternal rest
