The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has commended beneficiaries of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme, NSDP, who recently obtained their Certificates of Competency, CoC, describing them as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria.

During an appreciation visit by the newly certified seafarers in Lagos, Dr. Mobereola praised their resilience and determination, noting that they had successfully navigated years of uncertainty to achieve professional certification.

He emphasized that challenges, though often seen as obstacles, can serve as opportunities for growth. “You have weathered the storm; the future will be easier for you. We are proud of you,” he stated.

The DG further charged the officers to remain disciplined and committed to excellence, urging them to mentor upcoming cadets. He reaffirmed that Nigerian seafarers have the capacity to compete globally, provided they remain consistent and professional.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Edet Uttibe Michael expressed deep gratitude to NIMASA for resolving their prolonged challenges. He recalled that after graduating from maritime institutions in Romania, they had waited nearly eight years without sea-time training or certification. According to him, the intervention of the current NIMASA management restored their hope and enabled them to realize their professional aspirations.

“We came to express our sincere appreciation for your magnanimity. You gave us hope and made our dreams come true,” Edet said.

Recently, NIMASA initiated strategic interventions to address sea-time and CoC challenges faced by NSDP beneficiaries. In 2024, the first batch of 40 cadets was sent to Tyne Coast College, South Shields Marine School in the United Kingdom. Out of this number, 34 successfully obtained their CoC, marking a significant milestone in resolving the longstanding issue.