Oyetola Reiterates Commitment to Marine Policy Implementation, Commends MAN Oron for High Training Standard
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has assured that the Ministry is currently working towards operationalising the newly approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy as one of the central pillars of the policy is manpower development.
While delivering his welcome remarks at the 2025 3rd Quarter Citizens’ and Stakeholders’ Engagement organised by the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom , Oyetola who was represented by Deputy Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Joshua Ayebameru emphasised that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is committed to ensuring that seafarers, cadets, and maritime professionals are not only globally competitive but also well-equipped to drive the growth and sustainability of the sector.
As the Minister commended the Management and Staff of MAN for their dedication and commitment, he said their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the progress celebrated during the engagement. He also urged all stakeholders present to actively contribute to the discussions as perspectives, insights, and recommendations will go a long way in helping to move the sector forward.
“We recognise that policies and plans alone are not enough. It is the people , the stakeholders who breathe life into these policies. That is why this engagement is critical. It provides us with an opportunity to align our efforts, exchange valuable ideas, and chart a common path toward sustainable growth, enhanced competitiveness, and global relevance.
“The future of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy depends on our collective resolve and partnership. If we work together, we will not only build a stronger sector but also secure lasting benefits for generations to come.”
The Chairman of the 6th Governing Council of MAN, Engr. Kehinde Akinola, during his welcome address, noted that the theme of this quarter’s engagement, “The Implementation of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy”, with particular reference to Onboard Training Opportunities for Merchant Navy Cadets could not be more timely.
He emphasised that the recent Federal Government policy in favour of providing sea-time and onboard exposure for Nigerian cadets presents both an obligation and an opportunity.He explained that it is an obligation because the Academy must prepare its cadets to meet international standards which is an opportunity because, through partnership with shipowners and operators, the institution can secure the practical training that turns theory into competent seafaring professionals.
Engr. Akinola stated that as a matter of the Council’s initiative and oversight , the development of a comprehensive Five-Year Strategic Development Plan for the Academy was conceived, initiated and guided .He revealed that the Plan, having been completed by the Council’s and Management, is currently awaiting the Minister’s consideration and approval.
According to the Chairman of the 6th
Governing Council of MAN, within the 1st Quarter of this year and within about 6 months of the Governing Council, the Management was provided policy guidance to complete the development of Staff Conditions and Scheme of Service for the Staff of the Academy for the first time since Its establishment in 1977.
He said the Conditions of Service of Staff of the Academy is currently receiving attention at the Office of the Head of the Civil Service (OHCSF) for approval.
Akinola stressed that the Renewed Hope Agenda has set a clear direction for policy articulation, delivery and partnership with citizens as the current series of quarterly engagements exemplifies that spirit as it is where government policies, programmes and successes are communicated openly, where citizens and industry are briefed and where Informed partnerships are forged to translate policy into measurable outcomes for the Nation’s Marine and Blue Economy sector.
“MAN is among the very best maritime training institutions in West and Central Africa. This Council is proud to have driven that process from inception to completion, and we look forward to its speedy approval and implementation.
“Once approved, this strategic blueprint will accelerate institutional reforms, enhance training standards, deepen industry linkages, and reposition the Maritime.
“I thank the Honourable Minister for his support, the Ag. Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna, and Management for their diligence, the members of the Council for their unwavering commitment, and all stakeholders for responding to this call to partnership.”, he said.
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