WMD 2025: How MAN Oron Cadets Stole the Awards Spotlight

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

The 2025 World Maritime Day celebration at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, was a spectacle of maritime excellence—but it was the cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, who truly stole the show. Their commanding stage presence and precision drill performance left the audience in awe, earning thunderous ovations from dignitaries, industry leaders, and fellow participants.

From the moment they marched onto the stage, the MAN Oron cadets radiated discipline, confidence, and charisma. Their synchronized salutes and crisp formations were more than ceremonial—they were a visual testament to the Academy’s rigorous training and the cadets’ unwavering commitment to maritime professionalism.

It was a performance that didn’t just impress—it mesmerized even the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola – who could not hide his feelings.  Amidst the applause, the cadets also swept top honors in various competitions.

Uzoma Favour Elochukwu, a final-year cadet of Maritime Transport and Business Management, who clinched the 1st prize in the essay writing contest said: “This award is a reflection of the quality training and mentorship I’ve received at the Academy.”

His essay, which aligned with the WMD 2025 theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” tackled Nigeria’s maritime challenges with actionable solutions that support NIMASA’s vision for safe and sustainable shipping.

Other standout cadets included Adegbuyi Emmanuel Adebayo and Utibe-Obong Uwem, who also emerged victorious in their respective categories, further solidifying MAN Oron’s dominance at the event.

The Acting Rector, Dr. Kevin Okonna, visibly proud, praised the cadets’ performance and poise. “Our cadets didn’t just participate—they captivated. Their brilliance, discipline, and readiness to lead in maritime operations were on full display.”

Cadets back at the Academy watching the programme on live stream, cheering their colleagues

The Academy’s delegation was equally impressive, comprising top officials including the Chairman of the Governing Council, Engr. Kehinde Olayinka Akinola, and other principal officers, senior staff and instructors who stood in support of their cadets’ shining moment.

With their unforgettable drill display and award-winning achievements, the MAN Oron cadets have once again proven that they are not just future maritime professionals but are already setting the standard.