By Correspondent in Lagos.
Marine and Blue Economy experts have called on young Nigerians, especially secondary school students, to consider careers in the maritime sector as a strategic move toward achieving sustainable economic growth and development in the country.
The experts made the appeal during the Children’s Day Blue Talents School for Sea Programme organized by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation (OAF) in Lagos.
In her presentation, Mrs. Bilkis Lawal-Akinola, Director of Operations at AA Secure Platforms Ltd., emphasized the critical importance of maritime security.
She defined maritime security as the protection of oceans, seas, rivers, and coastal zones from threats that endanger vessels, ports, and the marine environment.
“Maritime security is essential for the safe and efficient operation of vessels. To enhance this, we must integrate advanced technologies, enforce robust regulatory frameworks, and promote proactive leadership,” she said.
The President of the Foundation, Mrs. Violet Williams, noted that the initiative targets young minds who could become future marine engineers, maritime lawyers, ship captains, master mariners, and clearing agents.
“We enlightened 150 students from various schools in Lagos about career paths in the Marine and Blue Economy sectors. Though maritime studies are not taught in primary or secondary schools, this programme offers them early exposure to the opportunities available in the sector,” Williams stated.
She explained that the event was designed to celebrate Children’s Day by connecting students with maritime professionals who could guide them on their potential career journeys.
Our correspondent reports that the students received lectures on maritime security, supply chain management, and strategies for success in the blue economy.
Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, Human Resources Manager at LTT Coastal and Marine Services Ltd., advised students interested in maritime security to pursue relevant academic qualifications and obtain professional certifications.
“To work as a maritime security officer, you need a first degree,preferably in a maritime-related course and certification in International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and Ship Security Officer (SSO) Code.
These can be completed in less than two days,” she explained.
The Chief Superintendent of Customs, Mrs. Jane Ukil of the Tincan Island Command, highlighted the role of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) as a key regulator in facilitating maritime trade and collecting tariffs and duties.
Representatives from Shepherd, an AI-powered educational platform, including its Matron, Mrs. Eniola Williams, and Programme Manager, Mr. Arinze Ngonadi, praised the foundation’s initiative. Ngonadi introduced students to AI-driven learning tools designed to improve academic performance, encouraging collaborative learning through shared notes and flashcards.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Anthony Ogadi, CEO of Nacet Marine Service Ltd., applauded the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation for creating a unique platform that introduces students to the technical, commercial, and economic dimensions of maritime science and trade.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
