By Barnabas Esiet.
The Managing Director of NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML), Abdulkadir Ahmed, has underscored the significance of maritime training and capacity development in navigating the complex challenges facing the industry.
Speaking at the 2025 Annual Conference of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) held in Lagos, Ahmed represented by NSML’s Chief Financial Officer, Mutiu Olayiwola, emphasized the need for investment in human capital to ensure compliance, safety, and operational efficiency in the maritime sector.
He noted that the maritime industry is undergoing significant changes driven by environmental regulations, digitalization, and emerging cybersecurity and crew welfare standards.
“The International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) environmental mandates, such as the 2020 Sulphur Cap and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), are game-changing policies that require shipowners and operators to adopt greener technologies and more energy-efficient practices.”
Ahmed highlighted NSML’s Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) in Bonny, Rivers State, which is delivering UK-accredited and STCW 2010 compliant training to Nigerian seafarers.
The centre features advanced simulation systems, offering real-time training in bridge operations, engine room dynamics, cargo handling, and crisis response.
The NSML boss noted that the centre is reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign certification and supporting the country’s broader maritime ambitions.
He urged government, private sector players, and the media to work together in building a stronger and more resilient maritime future for Nigeria and Africa.
Ahmed commended AMJON for its vital role in shaping public discourse and storytelling in the maritime space, noting that the narrative of a transformed maritime industry must be driven from within.
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