Capt. Umoren Urges Graduating Maritime Academy Cadets to Explore Blue Economy Career Opportunities
The Secretary-General of the Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control for the West and Central African Region (Abuja MoU), Captain Sunday Umoren, has urged graduating cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, to take every career opportunity seriously and explore the numerous employment paths available in the country’s blue economy.
Umoren, who gave the advice in a goodwill message to the 2026 graduating batch of cadets, encouraged them to consider the various post-cadetship career options identified in the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s mapping of maritime clusters.
He said the cadets should look beyond securing sea-time placements and explore other opportunities within the maritime industry while pursuing their professional aspirations.
According to him, the journey to building a successful maritime career can be challenging, particularly when seeking a vessel for the completion of mandatory sea service.
Recalling the experience of a friend who encountered difficulties while searching for a training berth, Umoren urged the graduates not to be discouraged by rejection but to remain persistent in their search for opportunities.
“I know that securing a training berth is one of the toughest parts of the journey, so I urge you: do not give up. Knock on many doors, write and send out as many applications as you can,” he said.
He added that volunteering could also provide a valuable stepping stone for cadets seeking practical experience and professional connections while waiting for sea-time placements.
Umoren encouraged the graduates to volunteer with maritime non-governmental organisations, port community projects, maritime academies, sea scouting programmes and shipping companies to gain exposure to operational environments and develop relevant industry skills.
He explained that such engagements could familiarise them with shipboard routines, safety culture, teamwork and the discipline required in maritime operations.
According to him, volunteering could also strengthen their curriculum vitae, demonstrate their commitment to the profession and help them build relationships with maritime professionals who could provide recommendations or referrals for future placements.
The Abuja MoU secretary-general noted that the cadets have overcome several challenges to reach graduation, describing the occasion as a significant transition from academic training to professional life.
He, however, reminded them that the maritime industry could be demanding, competitive and unpredictable, requiring determination, discipline and a willingness to learn.
Umoren also urged the graduates to uphold the principles of safety, integrity and respect for seafarers, noting that their conduct would reflect not only on them as individuals but also on Nigeria.
He said their training have equipped them with the foundation needed to contribute to the maritime industry and urged them to maintain high professional standards wherever their careers take them.
Congratulating the graduates, Umoren expressed the hope that they would successfully complete their professional training and advance to become officers, ship masters and chief engineers.
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