The Federal government has inaugurated the Governing Board of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron.
Speaking while inaugurating the Board on Thursday in Abuja, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola said the vision of MAN, Oron is to equip our teaming youth with specialized maritime education and practical skills, preparing them for jobs in shipping, marine engineering, port operations, and logistics by offering industry-aligned training and internationally recognized certifications.
“As you are aware, the Academy has made significant strides in recent years, establishing itself as a premier institution for maritime education in Africa by investing heavily in infrastructural development, including modern classrooms, hostels, and advanced simulators for ship handling and engine room operations, providing cadets with practical, real-world training.
“The Academy has also updated its curriculum to align with international maritime standards, earning accreditation from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)”.
He explained that “the objective of the Academy remains the development of top and middle-class skilled manpower for the maritime sector. The Academy, therefore, must continue to provide specialized, practical training in areas like marine engineering and nautical sciences, which are essential for filling technical and operational roles.
“As you assume your roles, I urge you to align yourselves with the ongoing reforms in the Marine and Blue Economy sector, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration. The Maritime sector is critical to our national development, and the success of our broader economic policies depends heavily on our ability to provide the required manpower. The Maritime Academy of Nigeria is central to this effort.
“To achieve this, it is essential that there is a strong and seamless synergy between the Governing Board and the Academy’s Management. Collaboration and mutual respect between both entities will ensure that the Academy functions efficiently and effectively. Your role is to provide strategic leadership and guidance, working closely with the management to create an environment that promotes academic excellence and practical training. The goal is to create a learning environment that not only meets national standards but also positions our graduates to compete on a regional and global scale.
“On this note, it is important to mention that the Ministry is at liberty to override any decisions of the Board that is not consistent with Government policies and extant rules. The Board is to deal with policy matters only, it is not involved in the day-to-day administration of the Academy. This Board is part-time and is programmed to meet once in a quarter. Please note that other statutory members of the Board will be designated to join the Board soonest” Oyetola stated.
Responding, the Governing Board Engr. Kehinde Akinola commended the Federal government for the opportunity to serve.
“To my fellow Council members, I look forward to collaborating with you as a team to propel this Academy to greater heights. Together, we will foster excellence in maritime education, research and innovation.
To the Academy’s staff and students, I pledge to support your tireless efforts in shaping the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry. Your dedication will be matched by our Council’s commitment to strategic governance.
“Our focus areas will include; Enhancing academic quality and accreditation, Infrastructure development and modernization, Industry partnerships and collaboration, Capacity building and human capital development, Entrepreneurial and research initiatives
and Establishment of an innovation centre to further promote research in the Academy such as Maritime Robotics”.
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