The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to transforming the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, into a full-fledged university, as the institution celebrated the graduation of 180 cadets over the weekend. Speaking at the 2024 graduation ceremony in Oron, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, emphasized that the transition to a Maritime University is a gradual process but assured that progress is being made toward its realization.
Represented by the Director of Maritime Safety and Security in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Babatunde Bombata, Oyetola highlighted the importance of this transition in unlocking the potential of the marine and blue economy. He stated that the Ministry is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Education and the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure a seamless upgrade of the Academy.
“The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education and the NUC, is actively engaged in the processes required for the transition of the Maritime Academy to a university status,” Oyetola said. “This upgrade will open doors to advanced learning, cutting-edge research, and innovation, positioning the institution as a global leader in marine and blue economy education.”
Addressing the graduating cadets, Oyetola underscored the abundance of opportunities within the marine and blue economy sector and urged them to leverage their training to contribute meaningfully to national development. He also revealed that the Federal Government is developing a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, which will serve as a strategic framework for economic diversification, job creation, youth empowerment, and investment attraction.
In his remarks, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to partnering with the Academy in advancing the blue economy. Represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Gen. Koko Essien (rtd), Eno commended the Academy’s leadership for repositioning the institution to world-class standards and encouraged the graduating cadets to apply their skills to drive growth in the maritime sector.
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“I am confident that the training you have received here will not only advance your careers as seafarers but also contribute to the progress of our blue economy,” Eno said.
Dr. Okonna, Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy, expressed pride in the institution’s legacy as a pioneer in maritime training. He noted that graduates of the Academy have significantly contributed to the growth of the marine and blue economy, both locally and internationally.
“This Academy is a national asset, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities capable of training world-class seafarers,” Okonna said. “Our cadets are prepared to compete globally, and we are proud of the partnerships we’ve built with other institutions and corporate organizations.”
Okonna also took the federal delegation on a tour of the Academy’s facilities, describing it as a center of excellence and a critical resource for Nigeria’s maritime ambitions.
As the Maritime Academy of Nigeria continues its journey toward becoming a university, its role in shaping the future of the marine and blue economy remains a cornerstone of its mission. The graduation of 180 cadets marks another milestone in this transformative journey, signaling brighter prospects for Nigeria’s maritime industry.
