Maritime Agencies
STCW : MAN, Oron, Trains Maritime University Students, Showcases Dividends of Reforms
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As students of Maritime University of Nigeria (MUN), Okerenkoko, Delta State, February 20, successfully completed their Standard of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) compliant training programme at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, (MAN),Oron, it was another opportunity for the nautical training college to showcase a success story and huge dividends recent reforms and transformation are attracting.
Last year, MUN and the MAN, Oron, struck a technical pact whereby the Academy is to conduct mandatory short courses for her students following evidences that the nautical college has now attained an acceptable capacity level of providing global standards wide- ranging training programmes to cadets and students of maritime training institutions.
The attainment of this capacity level of providing wide-range training to stakeholders has been bringing accolades to an institution that had little or no opportunity to do same years back. Prominent maritime practitioner and ship owner told Falcon Watch Online in Lagos that it is a good development. It now places Nigeria in the league of notable maritime nations that parade international recognition.
The ship owner who prefers anonymity expressed optimism that if MAN continues in this manner, before long, Nigerian authorities would see the need to send trainees under the Nigerian Seafarers’ Development Programme (NSDP) to Oron, if anything, to conserve scarce foreign exchange being spent to train them abroad.
A recent visit to the school during the 2022 Cadets’ Graduation Ceremony revealed that going by the number of critical training facilities in place, MAN, Oron, has attained the status of a specialized cadets’ training institution that can compare favorably with her counterparts anywhere on the globe. Is it in terms of training curricula, physical learning ambience or environmentally-friendly atmosphere never experienced many years back?
In fact, MAN, Oron has been acclaimed by many international maritime training practitioners as one of Africa’s fastest growing training institution and the most fitted in terms of modern training facilities for cadets and trainees in West and Central Africa.
Industry observers can confirm that the Rector of the Academy, Commodore Duja Emmanuel Effedua (Rtd) has never failed to utilize any opportunity available to acknowledge the massive encouragement and support of the Federal Ministry of Transportation (FMOT) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) towards transforming the college into a world-class maritime education and training institution.
Commodore Effedua restated this appreciation recently while presenting certificates to the first batch of trainees in the Engine Room Simulator (Operational Level) Course who successfully completed their training at the Academy.
He explained that the journey to bring the Academy at par with her counterparts in the global maritime arena began in 2018 with the commencement of the procurement and installation of top-notch training facilities in the institution. He noted with delight that the Ministry has been solidly behind his administration’s quest to ensure full realization of the transformation agenda as specified in the recommendations of the 2017 Interim Management Committee to restructure and reposition MAN in line with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) standards.
The Rector said that with the continued support, the Academy would sustain the current status attained as one of the very best Maritime Education and Training Institutions in the world. It would even raise the bar higher, he added.
During his interaction with the first batch of trainees in the Radar Navigation, Radar-Plotting and Use of ARPA (RNRPA), Commodore Effedua was happy that with the approval of NIMASA, the school has commenced Simulator-based Courses using the most modern Simulators in the world. He reminded the participants that the Academy now offers twelve simulator-based courses for the training and professional development of seafarers.
In view of very considerate fees being charged to train at Oron, the Rector explained, significant foreign exchange now stands to be saved since the simulator-based courses offered abroad can now be accessed at the Academy.
“Today is yet another memorable day for us at the Academy because we have graduated the first set of students from our newly- developed simulator- based courses. I am highly appreciative of the roles played by the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the management of the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency towards the realization of this Academy’s aspirations.
“This feat, though not an easy one, would not have been achieved without their unflinching support”, he added.
Following the acquisition of high quality Simulators, MAN now offers courses in Ship Simulator & Bridge Teamwork (SSBT); Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and General Operators Certificate (GOC) Course. Others are Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting and Use of ARPA (RNRPA).
Others include Liquid Cargo & Ballast Handling Simulator (LCBHS); Bridge Watch-Keeping Preparatory Course (BWPC); Engine Room Simulator (Operational Level) Course (ERSOL); Engine Room Simulator (Management Level) Course (ERSML); High Voltage Course (HV); Auxiliary Engine Familiarization Course (AEFC); Boiler Familiarization Course (BFC) and Engine Room Watchkeeping Preparatory Course (ERWPC) and STCW.
In terms of quality, MAN’s simulators are deliberately customized to meet the current training needs of cadets in Nigeria’s maritime industry. The Multi-functional Classroom Simulator has eight Simulators embedded in one with the capacity to hold different Courses at different times for Engine and Deck students. It can accommodate up to 30 trainees at a time.
With the Full Mission Engine and Full Mission Deck Simulators, real life Engine Room and Deck situations can be simulated to give trainees real at-sea-life experience. While the Full Mission Deck Simulator can simulate any type of vessel including Warship, Tanker vessels- LNG, LPG Oil Tankers, the Full Mission Engine can simulate the movement of various engine parts and everything that goes on in a real engine room situation including engine room watch keeping, monitoring of lubrication oil and movement of engine parts.
Also available at the MAN is the Ocular Vision Simulator which, if worn on the head, launches the trainee into a virtual engine room where he can operate valves and switch machineries within the engine of a ship on- and- off.
Established in 1977 as Nigerian Nautical College, MAN was originally conceived to train shipboard officers, ratings and shore-based management personnel.
With the promulgation of Decree No 16 in 1988, the school was upgraded with a statutory mandate to train different categories of personnel required for the effective and efficient operation of specialized maritime industry requirements.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
”From humble beginnings at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) when he was employed on October 17th 1994 (same month of his birth) as a junior staff on Grade Level 3, Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu popularly known as “Texas”, by dint of diligence, determination, discipline and desire rose to the defining role of senior staff Grade Level 13 in a career marked by sterling contributions and indelible impact till his return to his maker on Friday 1st May, 2026.”
These were the words of Mr Ikechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager, Corporate Affairs of the Nigerian Ports (NPA) in a fitting tribute in memory of the Agency’s ace photographer, Paul Erakhifu, affectionately known as “Texas”, who passed on recently.
”Although we cannot determine our appointed date of birth and death, we definitely can determine how we want to be remembered. ”
The GM stated that by his uncommon commitment to his craft (Photography) and his contagious sense of humor which he generously doled out to all who came in contact with him definitely and intentionally, “Texas” set out to be remembered for good.
”Looking back, it is plausible that with his popular refrain “you have made my day” and “powerful” which were his default response to most of those who encountered him on and off duty, late “Texas” was informing us that he would make his days on earth powerful, which he did with grace and honor as can be gleaned from his professional and career trajectory.”
Describing late Paul as one who never relented on taking advantage of opportunities to pursue career growth and personal development, Mr Onyemekara recalled that “Texas” proceeded to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature in the year 2005, Master Degree in International Relations in 2012 and a Master of Science (MSc.) in Mass Communication.
”Poised to get ahead and be equal to the exigencies of his chosen craft, “Texas” trained at the London Film Academy, London Academy of Media, Film & Television and the Texas School of Photography USA in fulfillment of his lifelong admiration for the American city of Texas for which he adopted the sobriquet “TEXAS”.
He explained that the life and times of Texas validated the biblical truism that “that a man diligent in his business shall stand before kings and not mean men”.
”Indeed, “Texas” was diligent in his business and stood before kings both in Nigeria and internationally as he was widely travelled for high level official engagements in company of various chief executives of the Authority to Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, USA, Japan, Ghana, Togo, Congo, Guinea, South Africa, amongst others.”
Although Texas will be sorely missed and has left a vacuum so wide and difficult to fill, the NPA image maker added, “we will take solace in the immortal words of James Wrubel that ‘no one truly dies who is remembered’.
”We continue to remember and celebrate his good deeds, exceptional sense of humor and his contribution to the advancement of knowledge as evidenced in his authorship of two books with which he lighted paths and lightened burdens. ”
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Following a keenly-contested election, Thursday, Oluyinka Onigbinde, Assistant Editor, Shipping Position Daily, emerged the new President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).
Out of 33 votes, Onigbinde polled 20 while his closest rival, Rev John Iwori, had 13.
The election, which witnessed active participation by members of the association, also produced other executive officers to pilot the affairs of MARAN following the dissolution of the Tunde Ayodele-led Caretaker Committee. These are Sylvanus Obasi (Vice President), Fabian Anawo (Secretary) and Amina Ojelabi (Assistant Secretary). Others are Ruth Umunnna (Treasurer), Ambrose Okehi (Financial Secretary) and Providence Ayanfeoluwa (Public Relations Officer).
The new MARAN Executive during swearing-in by Mr Leye Ajayi, the Lagos NUJ Chairman.
Speaking after swearing in the officers, Mr Adeleye Ajayi, Chairman, Lagos State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), urged the newly-elected officers to conduct the affairs of the maritime journalists’ body with a deep sense of patriotism while promoting professionalism, welfare, and unity among members of the association.
Maritime Agencies
Anti-Smuggling Operations: FOU ‘A’ Customs Seizes N2.35bn Drugs, Pledges Hard Times for Smugglers.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In the past eight weeks, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ikeja , Lagos, intercepted narcotics and contrabands valued at over N5.5billion, thus, posting a substantial breakthrough in the sustained efforts to deal with smuggling of illicit goods and unauthorized importations.
The FOU Zone ‘A’ Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Aliyu Gambo announced this in Lagos, Tuesday, during a press conference.
Beside cocaine worth ₦2.35 billion, large quantities of 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice equivalent of 15 trailers, petroleum products, used vehicles, and other prohibited goods were also displayed as confiscated.
During the period, he stated, the Unit carried out 473 successful interdictions, seizing 8,794 bags of 50kg foreign rice, 22 used vehicles, 328 bales of used clothing, 31,705 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and a Mercedes-Benz vehicle valued at ₦119 million.
Also seized were 531 cartons of frozen poultry, 1,188 kegs of vegetable oil, 485 used tyres, and several cartons of spaghetti and sugar.
Comptroller Gambo Aliyu revealed that operatives at the Gbaji Customs on Seme Road intercepted a 71-year-old suspect along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor with 6.35kg of cocaine concealed in a Toyota Highlander. The drugs, comprising powdered and crystalline variants, carry an estimated street value of ₦2.35 billion.
Under a special operation code-named Operation Hawk, the unit also seized 3,340 parcels of synthetic cannabis, popularly known as “Ghanaian loud,” weighing 1,540kg. The seized narcotics were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a formal handover ceremony during the briefing, for further investigation and prosecution.
The CAC who lamented the huge harm consumption of drugs inflicts on the Nigerian society regretted that today, many homes are broken.
”A lot of homes are broken due to drugs and the results of drug trafficking. Our mandate is to cut off the supply chain, and that is exactly what we are doing.”
He further unveiled four cylinders of mercury concealed in a vehicle along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor, describing the hazardous substance as regulated under international conventions.
The unit also recovered ₦97.7 million through Demand Notices on under-declared consignments. He requested for stronger collaboration among security agencies to confront and overcome various strategies being applied by purveyors of illicit trade networks.
Commending the synergy between the NCS and the NDLEA, Narcotics Commander, Kabiru I, K. explained that this should send a strong signal to purveyors of illicit trade that the South-West corridor is under close surveillance.
NPA Mourns her Ace Cameraman, Paul Erakhifu, alias “Texas”.
MARAN Elects Yinka Onigbinde As New President.
Anti-Smuggling Operations: FOU ‘A’ Customs Seizes N2.35bn Drugs, Pledges Hard Times for Smugglers.
Kaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
AMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
NPA Targets Nigerian Ports As West Africa’s Trade Nerve Centre, Taking Advantage of AfCFTA.
Greg Ogbeifun, Foremost Ship Owner, To Chair Event Marking the 10th Anniversary of AMSAY Conference.
MARAN LEADERS APPRECIATION NIGHT: Iheanacho, Integrated Oil and Gas Boss, Urges Maritime Journalists To Invest in Knowledge
MARAN’s Appreciation Night for Former Presidents Showcased Pomp and Pageantry.
Tincan Port Customs Floors Smugglers, Nabs Massive Cannabis Indica Days After Pact with NDLEA.
To Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
Capt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
Ihenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
NSW: Stakeholders Fear Success With Weak Commitment by Drivers and Lack of Reforms by Government.
Dantsoho, NPA MD, Attributes Maritime Sector Transformation to Reforms and Minister’s Leadership Style.
MARAN Confirms Readiness To Celebrate Past Presidents.
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
HALF YEAR, 2024: Apapa Customs Nets ₦1.024 Trillion, Records 143% Increase.
Photo News: Salah Celebration
JANUARY-MAY REPORT: Seme Customs Hits N2.6bn, Facilitates ₦35.1bn Exports.
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
Mama Theresa Enisuoh Due For Burial April 27
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
B’Odogwu: Apapa Customs Collects ₦161b in 3 Weeks, Assures of Improvements .
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoIhenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoTo Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoCapt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoAMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
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Customs1 week agoKaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoTincan Port Customs Floors Smugglers, Nabs Massive Cannabis Indica Days After Pact with NDLEA.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoNPA Targets Nigerian Ports As West Africa’s Trade Nerve Centre, Taking Advantage of AfCFTA.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoGreg Ogbeifun, Foremost Ship Owner, To Chair Event Marking the 10th Anniversary of AMSAY Conference.