The Federal Government has inaugurated the Governing Board of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron.
During the ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, outlined the Academy’s vision to equip Nigerian youth with specialised maritime education and practical skills.
He said the goal is to prepare them for roles in shipping, marine engineering, port operations, and logistics through industry-aligned training and internationally recognized certifications.
Oyetola highlighted the Academy’s progress, stating, “In recent years, the Academy has established itself as a premier maritime institution in Africa, investing heavily in infrastructure like modern classrooms, hostels, and advanced simulators for ship handling and engine room operations. This allows cadets to receive practical, real-world training.”
He also noted that the Academy’s curriculum has been updated to meet international standards, earning accreditation from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
“The Academy’s objective is to develop top-tier skilled manpower for the maritime sector, focusing on marine engineering and nautical sciences to fill technical and operational roles,” Oyetola explained.
He urged the newly inaugurated Board to align with the ongoing reforms in the Marine and Blue Economy sector under the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He emphasised that the Academy is critical to national development by supplying skilled manpower to the maritime industry.
The Minister also stressed the importance of collaboration between the Governing Board and the Academy’s management.
“Your role is to provide strategic leadership and guidance, ensuring that the Academy functions efficiently, promotes academic excellence, and prepares graduates to compete globally,” he added.
Oyetola further clarified that the Board is part-time and focused on policy matters, with the Ministry retaining the right to override decisions inconsistent with government policies.
Responding on behalf of the Board, Engr. Kehinde Akinola expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to elevate the Academy’s status.
“Together, we will foster excellence in maritime education, research, and innovation,” he said, outlining the Board’s focus on enhancing academic quality, infrastructure modernization, industry partnerships, and the establishment of an innovation centre to promote maritime research, including areas like maritime robotics.
Akinola assured the Academy’s staff and students of the Board’s commitment to supporting their efforts in shaping Nigeria’s maritime future.
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