New Dawn for Nigerian Seafaring: Dr. Okonna’s Factor

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

In the evolving story of Nigeria’s maritime renaissance, one name that has continue to stand tall is Dr. Kevin Okonna, Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron. His journey is not just that of a mariner or an educator, but of a visionary who chose conviction over comfort, and service over self. Follow us as we unveil his strong character in this report built on the recollection of Captain Hamberlain Yusuf, another iconic maritime personality.

The Teacher Who Stayed

Years ago, when the allure of corporate salaries beckoned, Okonna had already secured an appointment with the Nigeria LNG (NLNG). Yet, in a decision that stunned colleagues, he declined the offer. His reason was simple but profound: “The Academy needs me.”

That choice, uncommon in today’s climate of professional migration, revealed a man deeply committed to nurturing Nigeria’s maritime future. While other colleagues at MAN with him who were also successful in the job interview left for greener pastures, Okonna remained in the “dusty classrooms and leaking roofs” of MAN Oron, determined to transform the Academy into a launchpad for global seafarers.

Leadership Rooted in Integrity

Dr. Okonna presenting Ahmed the picture of the signing of the MOA that rebirthed the current partnership between MAN and NSLM during the induction of the first batch of 30 cadets, last week in Port Harcourt

Captain Hamberlain Yusuf, in his keynote address at the Inaugural Induction of MAN Oron Cadets into the NSML Fleet, last Friday in Port Harcourt recalled working with Okonna during NLNG’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative in 2006–2007. He described Okonna as “meticulous, uncompromising, insisting that every quantity and every quality was exactly as specified. Nothing less would do.”

This insistence on accountability and professionalism has become the hallmark of Okonna’s leadership. Today, as Acting Rector, he has spent over a year and three months delivering results, opening new frontiers of partnership, securing sea-time opportunities, and positioning MAN Oron as a global player in maritime education.

The Partnership That Changed Everything

The February 2026 induction of thirty cadets into NSML vessels marked a turning point. For nearly a decade, Nigerian cadets had been stranded, even though qualified but denied sea-time. That wall has now crumbled, thanks to the synergy between MAN Oron under Okonna’s leadership and NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML), led by the astute, forward looking  Managing Director, Ahmed Abdulkadir Kere.

Yusuf also praised Kere’s relentless drive, recalling how his very first question upon assuming leadership was: “How do we restart the training of Nigerian cadets?” That determination, combined with Okonna’s vision, resurrected a programme that had once defined Nigeria’s maritime excellence.

The Cadets: Pioneers of a New Era

An uncommon stakeholder and mariner who also led the NLNG for awhile, Yusuf’s words to the thirty inducted cadets were both rousing and sobering:

“You are students—be humble, be hungry, ask questions until your voice is hoarse.”

“You are ambassadors—the conduct of this first batch will determine how eagerly NSML welcomes the second and third.”

“You are Nigerians—carry our flag with pride. Let the world see that Nigeria produces seafarers who are not just qualified, but exceptional.”

Captain Hamberlain Yusuf

Yusuf notes that for these cadets, the journey ahead will be tough, but it is also historic. They are the pioneers of a renewed coalition, the living proof that Nigeria can reclaim its place in global seafaring.

The Charge

As Yusuf concluded his keynote, he left the cadets with a charge that resonated far beyond the hall:

“Cadets, as you leave this shore and head for the blue waters, know this: You take with you the prayers of your nation, the pride of your Academy, and the unwavering belief of your Rector.

“Go. Learn the ways of the sea. Master your craft. Return to us as officers: competent, confident, and ready to lead. Return to us as the generation that restored Nigerian seafaring to its rightful place.

“May the winds be fair. May your voyages be safe. And may you always find your way home.”

It was not just advice, it was a benediction, a reminder that their journey carries the hopes of a nation.

Okonna’s Sterling Public Service Poise

Dr. Kevin Okonna’s story is one of brilliance, vigour, and uncommon sacrifice. He embodies the rare blend of mariner and educator, strategist and servant-leader. His decision to remain with MAN Oron when others left, his insistence on integrity, and his ability to forge impactful partnerships have already transformed the Academy.

It is time for the Presidency and the Federal Government to recognize this unique dynamic. Industry observers think that Okonna has served meritoriously as “Acting” Rector. His testimonial, history, and passion demand that he be confirmed as the substantive Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria.

A Legacy in Motion

In conclusion, it is pertinent to state that the resurrection of the NSML sea-time programme is more than an event, and has become the rebirth of a dream. And dreams are resurrected only when leadership meets opportunity. In the words of Hamberlain Yusuf: “History will remember that in 2025, two men decided that enough was enough.” Those men are Dr. Kevin Okonna and Mr. Ahmed Abdulkadir Kere. Their vision has opened doors for a new generation of Nigerian seafarers.

Whilst the Academy needed Okonna at some point in the past; today, Nigeria needs him even more, for the Academy.