In a significant boost to Nigeria’s Blue Economy, thirty (30) cadets from the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, have been officially inducted by Nigerian Liquidified Natural Gas, (NLNG) Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) for mandatory one-year sea-time experience.
This placement serves as a major catalyst for the maritime sector, transitioning Nigerian talent from the classroom to the high seas.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Anastasia Ogbonna, described the induction as a critical step in strengthening Nigeria’s maritime human capital.
“This initiative ensures that Nigerian cadets are equipped with the practical expertise required to become globally competitive seafarers. By facilitating training aboard prestigious NLNG vessels, we are deepening indigenous capacity in line with international best practices.”
The Minister emphasized that this development is a tangible result of the administration’s commitment to youth development and positioning Nigeria as a formidable hub for maritime excellence.
Speaking earlier at the induction ceremony, the Acting Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Dr. Kevin Okonna acknowledged that the successful deployment of these cadets serves as a direct realization of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the strategic vision of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola.
Okonna, credited the recently approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy for prioritizing critical industry partnerships that have crystallised to secure these vital at-sea training opportunities.
“By bridging the gap between classroom education and practical, real-world experience, the MAN-NSML partnership not only provides life-changing opportunities for young Nigerian seafarers but also firmly positions the nation as a competitive, capable player in the global maritime landscape” the Acting Rector stated.
Continuing, he said: “This partnership actively reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to supplying highly skilled personnel to a global shipping industry responsible for carrying approximately 90% of international trade.”
Also speaking, the Managing Director, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML), Abdulkadir Ahmed, highlighted the event as the first milestone of a strategic MOU signed in December 2025, aimed at bridging the industry’s capacity gap through world-class, simulator-based training.
“To our cadets today marks the beginning of a transformative journey the maritime profession demands discipline, resilience, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, you are stepping into a career that will test you, shape you, and ultimately reward you. NSML and MAN Oron are giving you a solid foundation, but your attitude, effort, and character will determine how far you go. I encourage you to remain focused, uphold the highest ethical standards, and embrace the opportunity before you”, Ahmed charged the inductees.
Signed
Desmond Adyo
for: Director, Information & PR
