Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, said that the ministry was actively working to transition the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron to a university.
Oyetola said this in his remarks at the 2024 graduation ceremony of MAN cadets, which was held at the academy on Saturday in Oron.
The minister, represented by Mr Babatunde Bombata, Director, Maritime Safety and Security of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy said that upgrading the Academy to a University will unlock opportunities within the marine and blue economy.
“The ministry, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education and the Nigerian Universities Commission, is actively working on the processes required for seamless transition of the academy to a university status.
“While this transformation is underway, it is hoped that this upgrade will unlock new opportunities for advanced learning, cutting-edge research and innovation within the marine and blue economy fields,” Oyetola said.
Oyetola urged the graduating cadets to embrace innovation and resourcefulness and remain forward-thinking.
He admonished them that the marine and blue economy sectors were teeming with opportunities, stressing their contributions to the sector would be instrumental in shaping a brighter future.
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in these fields, and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact you will make in your careers,” he said.
He said that the federal government was working on developing a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy.
The minister said that the policy would serve as a strategic framework to drive economic diversification, attract investments, create jobs and empower the youth.
In his remarks, Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State added that the state government would continue to collaborate with the academy in the development of the marine sector.
Eno, represented by Gen. Koko Essien, (rtd), Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, urged the graduating cadets to make good use of their training in developing the maritime sector.
“I am hopeful that you will utilise the training you have acquired here to further your career as seafarers and in the progress of our blue economy,” Eno said.
Eno commended the Acting Rector, Dr Kevin Okonna and his management team for excellent work in repositioning the academy as a training centre of excellence.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the acting rector, Okonna said that graduates of the institution have contributed immensely to the growth of the marine and blue economy.
“We have an opportunity to celebrate the addition of well-trained personnel to the maritime and allied industries.
“We pride ourselves as the pioneer maritime training institution, we pride ourselves because of the contributions of this institution to the national development.
“That graduates of the institution have contributed immensely to the growth of the marine and blue economy,” Okonna said.
The acting rector urged the graduating cadets to recognise the resources that had been embedded in them and go out there and make a mark for themselves.
He disclosed that as a centre of excellence, the academy trained cadets from neighbouring countries.
Our correspondent reports that goodwill messages were received and awards were given to the cadets, who have distinguished themselves in character and learning during their stay at the academy.