By Chimezie Godfrey
The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy says 30 cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron have secured mandatory sea-time placement with NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s maritime manpower.
The development was disclosed in a statement signed for the Director of Information and Public Relations by Desmond Adyo.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the ministry described the induction as a major boost to the country’s Blue Economy drive.
According to the statement, the one-year placement will enable the cadets gain practical experience aboard NLNG vessels and transition from classroom training to real maritime operations.
“This initiative ensures that Nigerian cadets are equipped with the practical expertise required to become globally competitive seafarers,” the minister said, adding that the programme deepens indigenous capacity in line with international best practices.
The ministry noted that the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s youth development agenda and efforts to position Nigeria as a maritime hub.
In his remarks, Acting Rector of the academy, Kevin Okonna, said the deployment reflects strategic collaboration between government and industry.
He added that the partnership bridges the gap between theoretical education and practical experience while positioning Nigeria competitively in the global shipping sector responsible for moving about 90 per cent of world trade.
Also speaking, Managing Director of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, described the induction as the first milestone of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2025.
Ahmed urged the cadets to embrace discipline, integrity and professionalism, noting that the maritime profession requires resilience and commitment to excellence.
The ministry stated that the programme forms part of ongoing efforts to develop skilled manpower and enhance Nigeria’s participation in the global maritime industry.