Maritime Academy of Nigeria pledges to deliver high-quality education, training for blue economy
The Maritime Academy of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to providing high-quality education and training to meet the needs of the maritime industry.
The Acting Rector of the Academy, Dr. Kevin Okonna, represented by the Spokesperson, Domo Umoekpe, highlighted the institution’s role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector while speaking at the 2025 AMJON Conference in Lagos.
Dr. Okonna stated that the Maritime Academy of Nigeria was established in 1977 and is charged with training personnel for the merchant navy, ports, and other marine-related industries.
The Academy has three Schools, where programmes are offered at both National Diploma and Higher National Diploma levels.: School of Engineering, School of Maritime Transport Studies, and School of Nautical Studies.
The Academy also has a Specialised Seafarers Training Centre, where Management Courses as well as Professional Short Courses in Certificate of Competency, in accordance with the STCW 78 (as amended) for personnel of the maritime industry and allied industries, are on offer.
Dr Okonna disclosed that the Maritime Academy boasts modern facilities, including simulators and equipment for practical training.
The institution has four simulators, including a Full Mission Bridge Simulator and a Full Mission Engine Room Simulator, which provide hands-on training for cadets.
The Academy, he said, is actively pursuing partnerships with industry stakeholders to ensure its cadets are well-versed in current trends.
According to him, collaborations with professional bodies like the Institute of Marine Engineering and Technology (IMarEST) and the Nautical Institute, UK, aim to provide sea-time placement and enhance the quality of training.
Commenting on the importance of human capacity development in maritime growth, the Academy’s Acting Rector reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering competent, globally competitive maritime professionals to drive Nigeria’s blue economy forward.
The Acting Rector also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, NIMASA, and other industry stakeholders for their support and contributions to the development of the Academy.