…Urges board to align academy with administration’s economic policies
On October 3, 2024, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola inaugurated the 6th governing board of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron.
Speaking during the inauguration, Oyetola urged the newly sworn-in board members to ensure that the academy’s curriculum aligns with the economic policies of the Tinubu administration’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
“As you assume your roles, I urge you to align yourselves with the ongoing reforms in the Marine and Blue Economy sector, under the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of this administration,” Oyetola said. “The maritime sector is critical to our national development and the success of our broader economic policies depends heavily on our ability to provide the required manpower.”
Oyetola emphasised the need for synergy between the governing board and the academy’s management. He called for close collaboration and mutual respect to ensure the smooth running of the institution.
Outlining the board’s responsibilities, Oyetola stressed that its role is to provide strategic leadership and work closely with the management to create an environment that fosters academic excellence and practical training. He noted that the goal is to build a learning environment that not only meets national standards but also positions MAN graduates to compete globally.
“Your role is to provide strategic leadership and guidance, working closely with management to promote academic excellence and practical training. The aim is to create a learning environment that not only meets national standards but also allows our graduates to compete regionally and globally,” the minister explained.
However, Oyetola made it clear that the board’s role is strictly policy-related and does not extend to the day-to-day administration of the academy. He reminded the Board members that they are expected to meet only once per quarter and that the ministry reserves the right to override decisions not aligned with government policies.
Oyetola reiterated the academy’s vision to equip Nigerian youth with specialised maritime education and practical skills, preparing them for careers in shipping, marine engineering, port operations and logistics. He highlighted the institution’s commitment to offering industry-aligned training and internationally recognised certifications, including accreditation from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
In his acceptance speech, the newly appointed chairman of the governing board, Engr. Kehinde Olayinka Akinola expressed gratitude to the minister and President Bola Tinubu for the appointment. He pledged to work collaboratively with other board members and the academy’s staff to shape the future of the Nigerian maritime industry. Akinola emphasised the board’s commitment to fostering excellence in maritime education, research and innovation.
“We are committed to shaping the future of maritime education in Nigeria by promoting excellence in all areas,” Akinola stated.
The rector of MAN, Oron, Commodore Duja Effedua (Rtd), also pledged his full support to the newly inaugurated board. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would take the institution to greater heights and ensure its continued relevance in the global maritime sector.
The newly constituted governing board has Engr. Kehinde Olayinka Akinola as chairman, with Shehu Maigari Doguwa, Samuel Isichei and Faisal Lawal Halidu as members. Other statutory members will be appointed to join the board in due course, Oyetola revealed.
The inauguration marks a significant step towards advancing Nigeria’s maritime education sector and aligning it with the government’s broader economic policies aimed at national development.
