The Maritime Academy of Nigeria ( MAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to developing a world class maritime workforce capable of driving Nigeria’s blue economy to global relevance.
Representing the Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna, the Academy’s Image Manager, Mrs Domo Umoekpe, in a paper presentation titled “Maritime Academy of Nigeria: Ensuring Efficient Manpower in Nigeria’s Maritime Industry – Strategies and Options,” said that the academy ,established in 1977 as the nation’s premier maritime education institution, has become a cornerstone in the training of competent professionals for Nigeria’s merchant navy, port operations, and allied maritime sectors.
He also said that central to the Academy’s transformation, has been a resolute focus on delivering high quality education that meets both national and international standards and its curriculum is aligned with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) frameworks which is fully accredited by key regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). Offering diploma and professional-level training across its Schools of Engineering, Nautical Studies, and Maritime Transport Studies, the Academy has evolved into a hub of modern maritime learning.
Okonna, highlighted that the Academy’s capacity for simulator based training has greatly expanded with four state of the art simulators , including the Full Mission Bridge, Engine Room, Multi functional Classroom, Ocular Vision Simulators . He explained that the cadets are exposed to practical, real world scenarios that enhance their proficiency. These are complemented by engineering laboratories, a marine exhibition hall, four survival pools, and a recently installed free-fall lifeboat, all of which form part of an immersive training environment. The Academy’s jetty, waterfront survival capsules, and well-stocked modern library, including e-learning resources, further reinforce its commitment to hands-on, up-to-date instruction.
Beyond technical upgrades, he pointed out that the academy has placed a premium on strategic industry collaborations, as it maintains active relationships with globally recognised professional bodies such as the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST), Nautical Institute (UK), Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) . These partnerships have facilitated industry aligned training and have improved cadets’ access to sea time placement, a vital requirement for their career progression.
The Ag Rector also said that the academy plays a leading role in building capacity for other maritime training institutions (MTIs), offering instructor development courses like the IMO Model Course 6.09 and as such, institutions such as the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, routinely rely on the Academy for short course training and capacity building.
In addressing the broader learning environment, he noted that cadets and students benefit from conducive hostels, upgraded medical facilities, and a stable academic ecosystem that prioritizes student welfare and growth. Under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the visionary leadership of Honourable Minister Adegboyega Oyetola ,the academy has successfully attracted and retained industry experts as instructors, which have in turn drawn foreign students into its programmes.
He commended the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA, industry stakeholders, and AMJON, for their unwavering support in spotlighting and supporting the Academy’s journey.
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