MAN Oron Rector Advocates Human Capital Development For Competitive Nigerian Ports

The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron, Dr. Kevin Okonna, has stressed the need for sustained investment in human capital development, technology and modern infrastructure to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports.

Okonna made the call in a goodwill message delivered at the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria, MARAN Annual Maritime Lecture, MAMAL, held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The lecture, which focused on “Nigerian Ports Modernisation, Charges and the Competitiveness Question,” brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on the challenges and opportunities confronting Nigeria’s ports and the wider maritime industry.

Represented by the Head Public Relations of the institution, Domo Umoekpe, the Rector maintained that port competitiveness goes beyond physical infrastructure, noting that it is fundamentally anchored on efficiency, innovation, safety, technology, effective regulation and, most importantly, the quality of human capital driving the sector.

He said a modern port required not only modern infrastructure but also competent professionals capable of operating, managing and sustaining such infrastructure in line with international standards.

Okonna said the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, as the country’s foremost maritime training and education institution, recognised its critical role in providing the skilled manpower required to support the transformation of the nation’s maritime sector.

He disclosed that the Academy had continued to invest in modern training infrastructure, advanced simulators, practical training facilities and improved learning environments, while strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders within and outside Nigeria.

“As we discuss port modernisation and competitiveness, we must recognise that our future ports will be driven by both technology and people,” he said.

He added that the Academy remained committed to aligning its training programmes with industry requirements, international conventions and emerging technologies.

According to him, the Academy’s modern simulation facilities, specialised seafarers’ training centre, marine engineering workshops and other practical training infrastructure provide cadets and maritime professionals with opportunities to acquire competencies relevant to both the Nigerian and global maritime markets.

The Acting Rector further noted that the Federal Government’s renewed emphasis on the Marine and Blue Economy was aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa.

He, however, stressed that achieving the vision sustainably would require competitive ports, stronger maritime institutions and a well-trained workforce capable of taking advantage of the opportunities emerging across the sector.

“We at the Academy are proud to be part of this national effort,” Okonna said, while commending MARAN for organising the annual lecture and providing a platform for meaningful engagement on issues critical to the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

He also commended the stakeholders participating in the lecture for their commitment to advancing the conversation on Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness.

Okonna expressed confidence that the deliberations would produce practical recommendations capable of contributing to the modernisation of Nigerian ports and strengthening the country’s position in the global maritime economy.

He urged stakeholders to continue working together to build a maritime sector that is efficient, competitive and globally respected.

Photo Caption: Dr. Kevin Okonna, Acting Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron.

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