From Arrogance to Accountability: NIMASA’s New Era at MAN Oron

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

For decades, the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN) Oron has struggled under the weight of bureaucratic bottlenecks and institutional arrogance in accessing its statutory funding — the 5 percent allocation from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). What should have been a seamless statutory process was often reduced to a favour, dispensed at the convenience of successive NIMASA leadership.

Dr. Okonna, second from left, Ms Ogbeifun and Dr. Mobereola at the 2025 POP at the Academy in Oorn

It was an open secret that rectors of the Academy were compelled to embark on endless diplomatic visits, sometimes bending in undue homage, just to secure what was rightfully theirs. The tragic collapse and death of former Rector, Amb Joshua Okpo in 2015 during a ministerial probe into these controversies, remains a painful reminder of that era of strained relations.

But the tide appears to have turned, from all indications. Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and more specifically through the stewardship of NIMASA’s current Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, a refreshing narrative of respect, accountability, and partnership is emerging. The 2025 Cadets Graduation Ceremony at Oron was not just another event; it was a symbolic watershed moment in Nigeria’s maritime history.

Dr. Mobereola’s presence at the graduation ceremony was more than ceremonial. By physically attending, addressing cadets, and touring the Academy alongside Acting Rector Dr. Kevin Okonna, he demonstrated a leadership style rooted in service, humility, and institution-building. His actions signaled a departure from the “master-servant” dynamic of the past, replacing it with a robust partnership that prioritizes capacity development and mutual respect.

Dr. Mobereola at MAN Oron

Today, we are witnessing a commitment to service. Mobereola’s engagement showed that NIMASA is no longer a distant overlord but a collaborative partner in maritime education. His emphasis on strengthening institutions rather than personalities reflects a vision for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector: and points to an encouraging symbol of change.

His presence reassured stakeholders that statutory allocations and inter-agency relations will now be handled with transparency and fairness—a far cry from the old order.

The Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna, charged the graduating cadets to carry forward this spirit of transformation. His words were both inspirational and instructive:

“Use your knowledge not only to advance your careers but also to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s maritime industry and the global shipping community. Continue to learn, adapt, and excel, for the ocean rewards only those who combine skill with character.”

This charge aligns perfectly with Mobereola’s vision — producing cadets who are not just technically competent but also ethically grounded, ready to serve as ambassadors of Nigeria’s maritime renaissance.

Dr. Okonna

Equally instructive under this prevailing atmosphere of robust partnership is the lingering issue of cadets’ poor performance in the Certificate-of-Competency (COC) examinations. While training falls squarely on the shoulders of MAN, the responsibility for administering the COC rests with NIMASA. Historically, this disconnect has contributed to underperformance, leaving many Nigerian cadets struggling with employability in the global maritime market

With the new spirit of collaboration, however, there is hope. The CEOs of both institutions — Dr. Mobereola of NIMASA and Dr. Okonna of MAN — now have the opportunity to sit together in the spirit of chivalry and institutional respect to fine-tune processes, harmonize training with certification standards, and chart a path toward improved outcomes.

Addressing this challenge head-on would not only enhance the credibility of Nigerian cadets but also strengthen Nigeria’s standing in the international shipping community.

Dr. Okonna, showing industry VIPs, including Chief Adebayo Sarumi and Rngr. Greg Ogbeifun around the Academy during the 2025 POP

The event drew an impressive array of stakeholders from government and industry, underscoring the renewed confidence in MAN Oron’s role as a hub for maritime excellence.

Besides the DG NIMASA, Senator Wasiu-Sanni Eshilokun (Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport) and Hon. Khadija Ibrahim (Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, represented by Hon. Baraje Yusuf Kure and Hon. Paul Ekpo), was in attendance, in addition to a star parade of industry icons.

They include Chief Adebayo Sarumi (former MD, NPA), Engr. Greg Ogbeifu (Chairman, Starzs Marine), Mr. Sonny Eja (President, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria), Captain Tajudeen Alao (President, Nigerian Association of Master Mariners), Captain Sunday Umoren (Secretary-General, Abuja MoU), and Engr. Israel Obadan (President, Association of Marine Engineers and Surveyors).

Their collective presence was a powerful endorsement of the Academy’s renewed relevance and the credibility of both Okonna and Mobereola’s leadership.

The transformation unfolding at MAN Oron is not just about funding; it is about dignity, respect, and accountability. Dr. Dayo Mobereola has proven that leadership is not about wielding power but about empowering institutions and people. His actions have rekindled hope that Nigeria’s maritime sector can finally rise above the shadows of arrogance and neglect, steering towards a future of collaboration, transparency, and excellence.

Most importantly, the renewed partnership between NIMASA and MAN offers a golden opportunity to tackle the cadets’ COC underperformance — a challenge that has long undermined their employability. If addressed with the same spirit of respect and accountability now being demonstrated, Nigeria’s maritime industry will not only produce competent seafarers but also command global recognition.

This is the dawn of a new era, and it deserves to be celebrated.