The Federal Government has officially inaugurated a modern multipurpose building for the Institute of Maritime Studies at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, commissioned the facility on Thursday.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) funded and donated the high-tech structure, which includes modern lecture rooms, laboratories, and specialised equipment for teaching, research, and innovation.
Oyetola described the project as a key milestone in the government’s commitment to developing the blue economy as a major driver of national growth.
“The future of the blue economy will be shaped not just by natural resources but by the quality of manpower we produce,” the minister said.
He noted that maritime activities account for over 90% of Nigeria’s trade, making the sector critical for economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development.
The government has so far trained 2,459 Nigerians under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) in countries such as the UK, Egypt, Philippines, India, and Romania, with 1,088 already obtaining Certificates of Competency.
Oyetola also highlighted opportunities in fisheries, aquaculture, and the upcoming disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), which is expected to create thousands of jobs.
NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the agency is collaborating with eight Nigerian universities, including UNILAG, and international partners to build skilled manpower for the sector.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, welcomed the institute, saying it will strengthen programmes in maritime law, shipping management, port operations, logistics, and marine environmental studies.
The Institute of Maritime Studies, established in 2013, is now positioned to play a bigger role in maritime education and research across Nigeria and Africa.
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