The Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Akwa Ibom State, has maintained partnerships with international professional bodies to ensure its cadets obtain professional registration with recognised institutions. This initiative aims to strengthen their credentials and opportunities in the global maritime industry. The partnerships provide cadets with internationally recognised professional standards, positioning them for opportunities within and outside Nigeria.
The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Dr. Kelvin Okonna, disclosed this information during the institution's 2026 graduation ceremony. A total of 314 cadets graduated, comprising 260 National Diploma and 54 Higher National Diploma holders. The cadets received their certificates at the ceremony.
Every cadet of the institution is registered with at least one recognised professional body. These bodies include the London Institute, United Kingdom; Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology; Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport; and Chartered Institute of Transport Administration.
The London Institute will also present its prize for the Best Graduating Cadet in Honourable Assignments at the ceremony. The Academy's commitment to international standards is demonstrated by its acquisition of ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 21001:2025 Educational Organisations Management System certifications.
The Academy, with support from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), partnered with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the World Maritime University on a project supporting green and digital shipping in sub-Saharan Africa. This partnership was secured through a competitive expression-of-interest process.
Over 50 cadets have secured placements aboard international training ships for mandatory sea service. This includes 43 cadets undertaking their one-year sea service. Additionally, 51 graduating cadets will benefit from sponsored Cadet Training Experience aboard NLNG vessels through the Academy's partnership with Nigeria LNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML).
The Acting Rector attributed these opportunities to collaborations with NSML, the Shipowners Association of Nigeria, Stats Investment Limited, Sea Transport Nigeria Limited, Aereo Nigeria Limited, and the Academy's alumni. He urged the graduating cadets to uphold integrity, discipline, and professionalism in their careers.
Key points
- The Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, has partnered with international professional bodies to ensure its cadets obtain professional registration.
- A total of 314 cadets graduated from the institution in 2026.
- The Academy has secured ISO certifications and partnership opportunities with the IMO and World Maritime University.
