Inyene Benson is a distinguished leader in the Nigerian maritime industry, serving as the CEO of Knots&Gear Marine Supply Limited, a premier marine support services provider. Under Inyene’s leadership, Knots & Gear Marine has grown into a multifaceted operation, excelling in vessel chartering, ship engineering and repairs, offshore catering and housekeeping, and general marine procurement. The company’s commitment to excellence and innovation is setting it on a trajectory to become one of Africa’s leading providers of marine support services.

In addition to Mr. Benson’s role at Knots & Gear Marine, he is the Founder of Ibom Agro Allied Farms Limited, an agro-commodity aggregator, exporter, and value chain development company. With a strong academic background that includes a B.Sc in Human Physiology and an alumnus of Lloyds Maritime Academy, Inyene is a member of the Institute of Supply Chain Management UK (IoSCM), Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply UK (CIPS), and the Association of Corporate Governance Professionals Nigeria.

A leader who values empathy, diligence, effective communication, integrity, and leading from the front, Inyene has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the maritime industry. Outside of work, he is passionate about children, astrophysics, and sports, and enjoys engaging in discussions on a wide range of topics from global trade to palaeontology to tech to health.

Benson shares his career trajectory in the maritime sector and what makes his company stand out from the crowd….

As a CEO, what strategies have you adopted over the years that have helped in expanding your portfolio at Knot & Gear Marine?

One of the key strategies I’ve employed is a strong focus on diversification and innovation. By expanding our service offerings to include vessel chartering, ship engineering, offshore catering and housekeeping, and oilfield procurement, we have been able to meet the diverse needs of our clients. We started as a business working out of my private study, but today we operate out of Lagos and Port Harcourt, with over 40 employees, supporting assets owned by International Oil Companies (IOC), National Oil Companies (NOC), the NNPC, and other private maritime operators.
I also emphasize building strong partnerships, both locally and internationally, to leverage expertise and resources. Additionally, investing in technology and continuous staff training has allowed us to stay ahead of industry trends and maintain high standards of service.

How would you rate NIMASA in supporting local firms with the acquisition and manufacturing of vessels in Nigeria?

NIMASA has made significant strides in supporting local firms, especially through initiatives aimed at boosting local content, especially with the Capacity Building & Promotional Initiative incubated since 2018, targeting the growth of indigenous tonnage, shipbuilding, and human capital. However, there is still room for improvement, particularly in providing easier access to patient financing and creating more opportunities for local manufacturers to collaborate with global players. A more streamlined process and better incentives could further enhance the growth of local vessel manufacturing in the maritime sector.

The maritime industry has often been described as an industry for the strong-willed. How have you been able to overcome the hurdles that abound in the industry?

The current challenges in the maritime industry have indeed proven formidable, but I’ve found that resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach are essential to overcoming them. I always emphasize the importance of staying informed about market trends and industry regulations, which allows us to anticipate and mitigate potential risks. Building a strong team and fostering a culture of collaboration has also been crucial in navigating the complexities of the industry. Moreover, maintaining a network of trusted partners and advisors has provided invaluable support in challenging times.

With unemployment a rising concern for the growth of the African populace, how can the maritime sector help mop up the population of young Nigerians with the unemployment crisis?

Nigeria’s maritime sector can tackle youth unemployment by combining traditional vocational training with modern technological skills. Establishing specialized maritime institutes will equip young people with essential skills in seamanship, vessel maintenance, and port operations. Integrating digital tools, AI, and automation training will prepare them for emerging opportunities. Collaborations with industry and government can create apprenticeships for practical experience, while entrepreneurship programs will support maritime-related startups. This approach fosters sustainable employment and innovation for Nigeria’s youth.

What are the important lessons that have helped shape your career as a CEO?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a leader is the value of empathy and effective communication. Understanding the needs and concerns of both clients and employees is key to building strong relationships and fostering a positive work environment. Integrity and transparency in decision-making have also been crucial in earning the trust of stakeholders. Another critical lesson is the importance of continuous learning and adaptability—staying open to new ideas and willing to evolve with the industry has been essential to my success as a CEO.

What are your goals for Knot & Gear Marine in the future?

Looking ahead, my goal for Knots & Gear Marine is to solidify our position as a leading marine support services provider in Africa. This involves expanding our operations to new markets, particularly across West Africa, and continuing to diversify our service offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients. We also aim to invest in sustainable practices and technologies that will enhance our operational efficiency and reduce our environmental impact. Ultimately, I envision Knots&Gear Marine as a company that not only excels in business but also contributes positively to the communities and industries we serve.