…Sets Ambitious Dateline for STCW for Cadets

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

The Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, has witnessed a transformative year under the stewardship of Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna. His first twelve months in office have been marked by consolidation, deliberate alignment with international standards, and groundbreaking achievements that have raised the bar of maritime education in Nigeria.

From stabilizing governance to securing international partnerships, Dr. Okonna’s leadership has repositioned the Academy as a critical national asset, ready to serve Nigeria’s marine and blue economy while preparing cadets for global competitiveness.

Consolidation and Governance

• Stabilization of the Academy during a transitional phase.
• Strengthened governance structures ensuring operational steadiness despite external distractions.
• Flourishing teaching and learning activities anchored on professionalism and international standards.

Quality Assurance Milestones

• Completion of Stage One of SON quality audit, with Stage Two underway.
• Progress toward certification under ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 21001:2025.
• Hosting of IMO Independent Evaluators for Nigeria’s compliance with the STCW Convention.

Infrastructure and Welfare Achievements

• Restoration of steady public power supply via the national gridline after eight years of alternative electricity supply through diesel generators.
• Rehabilitation of cadet hostels and installation of solar facilities for 24-hour electricity.
• Approval of the Staff Conditions of Service by the OHCSF—a first in the Academy’s history.

International Partnerships and Recognition

• Registration of cadets with The Nautical Institute (UK), IMarEST (UK), and CILT Nigeria.
• Establishment of The Nautical Institute Prize for the Best Graduating Cadet in Nautical Science.
• MOUs signed with CILT Nigeria and Abuja MoU on Port State Control.
• Advanced discussions with NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) and Regional Maritime University (RMU), Ghana for onboard training and certification collaboration.

Cadet Training and STCW Compliance

• Seatime opportunities secured with Starzs Investment Limited, Sea Transport Services Nigeria Ltd, and Arion Energy Services Ltd.
• Ongoing negotiations with SOAN and NSML to broaden international onboard training opportunities.
• Clear dateline set for cadets’ compliance with STCW Convention requirements, ensuring graduates are globally competitive.

Graduation and Human Capital Development

• Graduation of 221 cadets in 2025, fully trained and certified to contribute to Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
• Faculty enriched with international professionals, including three Indian experts.
• Cadets imbued with values of professionalism, integrity, discipline, and safety consciousness.

Editorial Reflection and Closing Address

Dr. Okonna’s first year has been a showcase of “firsts”—from ISO certification processes to international partnerships, from restoring power to securing staff welfare. These milestones are transformative steps that reposition MAN Oron as a beacon of maritime excellence.

In his closing remarks at the 2025 Cadets’ Graduation Ceremony, Dr. Okonna urged the graduating class to:

“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.”

He extended heartfelt appreciation to key supporters:

• Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State for unwavering support.
• Hon. Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for visionary leadership and steadfast commitment.
• The Governing Council, led by Engr. Kehinde Akinola, for strategic guidance and advancing the Five-Year Strategic Development Plan.
• The Alumni of MAN, security agencies, traditional rulers, Oron community leaders, parents, guardians, staff, and management for their dedication.
• Sponsors and donors whose contributions fund prizes for excellence in academics, leadership, seamanship, and professionalism.

Together, these partnerships have repositioned the Academy and promise greater achievements in quality training, industry collaboration, and global recognition.

On a final note,  while Okonna acknowledged that the journey ahead is ambitious, he remarked that the foundation laid in these twelve months is solid, visionary, and inspiring.

Congratulating the graduating cadets, he waxed philosophical:

“May your sails always be filled with the winds of success, and may God guide you safely through every voyage of life.”

With these words, Dr. Okonna formally welcomed guests to the 2025 Graduation Ceremony and invited them to join him on a facilities tour of the Academy, underscoring that this critical national asset must never be left to the dictates of ignorance.