Focused Leadership Earns MAN Oron Global Praise

As IMO Sec Gen, Minister Applaud Okonna’s Transformational Impact

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

MAN Cadets and dignitaries including Minister Oyetola, the IMO Sec Gen. Okonna and other CEOs during theCadets engagement with the IMO Sec Gen in Lagos

In a resounding endorsement of visionary leadership and institutional transformation, the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, has received high praise from two of the most influential figures in global and national maritime governance: the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez, and Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, HE Adegboyega Oyetola, CON.

Their commendations spotlight the Academy’s Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna, whose focused leadership has propelled the Academy into a new era of excellence.

Dominguez addressing MAN Oron cadets at one of the meetings in Lagos

During a recent presentation by Dr. Okonna detailing the Academy’s achievements and challenges since the IMO’s December 2017 Technical Advisory Mission, both dignitaries lauded the Rector’s ingenuity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to maritime education reform.

Speaking during one of the several line-up of activities to welcome the IMO chief scribe, Minister Oyetola remarked, “The transformation taking place there is impressive and reflects our renewed drive to align maritime education with the goals of the Blue Economy.” He emphasized that the Academy’s infrastructural renewal and advanced training facilities are strengthening Nigeria’s ability to produce world-class seafarers.

This is even as Dominguez echoed this sentiment, stating, “From the presentation, it has grown immensely since 2017 till 2025.”

Though unable to visit the Academy in person, Dominguez expressed satisfaction with the institution’s adherence to global standards and its role in shaping technology-driven maritime professionals. Dr. Okonna’s presentation outlined a sweeping transformation of the Academy’s infrastructure and academic standards:

*Installation of state-of-the-art simulators for hands-on training

*Marine Engineering Workshop with functional engines and equipment

*Marine Exhibition Hall showcasing real ship components

*Survival Pool Complex with HUET facilities

*Jetty head and free-fall lifeboat for PSCRB training

*Smart classrooms and 24-hour power supply for cadet hostels

These upgrades have enabled the Academy to train and graduate approximately 200 cadets annually, with 75% pursuing seafaring careers. It bears recalling that under Okonna’s watch, all cadets are now registered with professional bodies such as the Nautical Institute (UK), IMAREST (UK), and CILT Nigeria.

Additionally, over 4,000 participants enroll yearly in 48 accredited short courses and specialized seafarer training programs, including 700 in preparatory classes for Certificates of Competency (COC) issued by NIMASA.

Dr. Okonna emphasized that the Academy’s reforms are aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to unlock Nigeria’s Blue Economy potential and establish the country as a regional maritime powerhouse.

“The Academy’s focus on excellence, infrastructural upgrade, and improved training standards is aimed at reflecting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national development and maritime advancement,” he stated.

MAN Oron at night

In a separate two-hour interactive session, Secretary General Dominguez engaged with twenty cadets, offering insights into global maritime strategies and the future of sustainable shipping. He encouraged cadets to embrace eco-friendly practices and shared personal values that shaped his career: humility, knowledge sharing, integrity, and ambition in moderation.

In a heartfelt appreciation, Cadet Captain Ibezimako Anthony Udoka said: “Cadets have never had it this good. Our hostels are very comfortable with twenty-four hours of power supply, smart classrooms, conducive learning environment, and top-notch training facilities”, adding:

“The Secretary General’s piercing words of advice reminded us that humility, integrity, and continuous learning are qualities that truly define a successful seafarer.”

The accolades from both the IMO and Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Ministry underscore Dr. Kevin Okonna’s capacity to lead MAN into a future of global relevance. His strategic reforms, commitment to excellence, and alignment with national and international maritime goals position the Academy as a beacon of innovation and professionalism.

With continued support and visionary leadership, it can conclusively be stated that the Maritime Academy of Nigeria is not just training seafarers; but shaping the future of maritime excellence in Africa and beyond.