Upgrade of Maritime Academy Nigeria Crucial for Economy

Professor Emmanuel Onwioduokit, a specialist in maritime studies, criticized recent opposition to upgrading the Maritime Academy Nigeria (MAN), Oron, emphasizing that such an upgrade would significantly boost Nigeria's economy and strengthen its position in the global maritime sector. In response to Kehind Akinola, chairman of the academy's governing council, who argued that the upgrade might weaken training standards, Onwioduokit pointed out that global best practices demonstrate that maritime universities successfully combine academic programs with professional seafarer training.

He explained that advancing Nigeria's maritime system requires a dedicated institution to develop skilled manpower and policy experts essential for driving the sector. Onwioduokit noted that the current academic structure limits growth and cannot fully support degree expansion or attract major research funding.

He asserted that upgrading the institution would not only preserve its strengths but also enhance Nigeria's status as a maritime knowledge hub in Africa, ultimately driving long-term economic growth.