Maritime Academy, Oron gets Acting Rector
By Seun Ibiyemi
Following the voluntary resignation of Commodore Emmanuel Effedua (rtd) as the Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom, Dr Kevin Okonna has been appointed as the Acting Rector.
Dr Okonna, who serves as the Coordinator of the Specialised Seafarers Training Centre, is the most senior director at the Academy. According to reliable sources, Dr Okonna will hold the position until a substantive Rector is appointed by the Ministry.
The Academy’s senior management team also includes Mr. P. M. Netson, Acting Registrar; Engr. Williams Ekwerre, Director of the School of Engineering; Mr. Anthony Ambi, Acting Bursar; Capt. E. S. Uwak, Director of the School of Nautical Studies; Dr. Gabriel Eto, Director of the School of Maritime Transport Studies; and Mr. Yusuf Ishiola, Director of Human Resources.
A source confirmed: “Dr Okonna has been acting as Rector since Commodore Effedua’s resignation.”
On Tuesday, the Academy hosted the Commandant and Officers of the Nigerian Army Amphibious Training School (ATS) from Calabar. The officers were on a training tour of the Academy and were welcomed by Dr Kevin Okonna, who is currently performing the duties of the Rector.
In his welcome address, the Acting Rector expressed the Academy’s honour in hosting key stakeholders and highlighted the eco-friendly environment of the institution. He also showcased some of the world-class infrastructure and training facilities that place the Academy on par with global counterparts.
Dr Okonna provided an in-depth briefing on the Academy, walking the visitors through its history, the academic programmes offered, and the state-of-the-art facilities. He highlighted the Academy’s commitment to excellence in maritime education and training in Africa.
He also took the opportunity to express appreciation for the sacrifices of the Nigerian military in maintaining peace and safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity. He stated: “Let me take this opportunity to express our profound gratitude for the sacrifices you all make in defending our nation. The Academy is a unique institution that fosters collaboration between civilians and military personnel.”
The Acting Rector emphasised the significance of the visit, noting that it reinforced the shared sense of purpose and collaboration between the military and the Academy. “We are always honoured to host your team annually,” he added.
Dr Okonna further underscored that the Academy stands at the forefront of maritime education, supported by a team of highly qualified professionals and a conducive environment for teaching and learning. He also noted that all training activities at the Academy are conducted in line with global best practices.
He explained the various categories of training offered at the Academy, which include regular cadet programmes that lead to the award of National or Higher National Diplomas, as well as specialised training for maritime professionals, in accordance with the International Maritime Organization’s Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW).
The Academy boasts several advanced facilities, including four modern simulators, four survival pools for practical training on personal survival techniques at sea, smart classrooms, lecture theatres equipped with multimedia devices, and other cutting-edge facilities that ensure students receive top-tier education and training.
“With these state-of-the-art facilities, we are not just keeping up with trends, but leading the way in maritime education and training,” Dr Okonna added.
Earlier, Brigadier General Emmanuel Azenda, the leader of the visiting team, thanked the Academy’s management for their warm welcome and noted the cleanliness and well-maintained learning environment of the institution. He explained that the visit aimed to expose participants of the 2024 Amphibious Staff Officers Course (ASOC) to the maritime environment and safety measures relevant to personnel operating in coastal areas.
He stated: “I want to appreciate the Acting Rector and his team for the excellent reception. It is an honour to be in the Academy once again. The Amphibious Training School and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria have enjoyed a long partnership.”
The Brigadier General expressed confidence that the visit had successfully broadened the participants’ understanding of the maritime environment, which would be valuable for their training.
The visit culminated in a guided tour of several of the Academy’s facilities, including the Multifunctional Classroom Simulator, Full Mission Engine Room Simulator, Full Mission Bridge Simulator, Ocular Vision (Virtual Reality) Simulator, Survival Pools, Smart Classrooms, and the Library Complex. The tour also included the Marine Engineering Workshop, Marine Exhibition Hall, and the Jetty training facilities.
Dr Okonna was accompanied by the Academy’s senior management team, including Mr. P. M. Netson (Acting Registrar), Engr. Williams Ekwerre (Director, School of Engineering), Mr. Anthony Ambi (Acting Bursar), Capt. E. S. Uwak (Director, School of Nautical Studies), Dr. Gabriel Eto (Director, School of Maritime Transport Studies), Mr. Yusuf Ishiola (Director of Human Resources), and Lieutenant Commander MK Gulak (Regimental Unit Commander), among others. Heads of the ICT and Public Affairs Departments, Mr. Vincent Okpe and Domo Umoekpe, were also present.
