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By Steve Agbota
Nigeria’s Captain Kunle Olayiwola was yesterday decorated as a Chartered Master Mariner making him the first African that achieve the feat.
The award is a recognition given to individuals who have reached the highest level of professional certification in the maritime industry.
Speaking at the event, the chairman, Commodore Duncan Lamb said: “A Chartered Master Mariner is an experienced and highly skilled mariner who has demonstrated expertise in ship navigation, safety, and management.
“This award is usually presented annually to acknowledge outstanding achievements, contributions, or leadership in the maritime field.”
The Captain Kunle Olayiwola who is also a fellow of the Nautical Institute spoke with newsmen at this year’s annual award and alumni event held in London.
“This is a proud moment for me and a great achievement for Nigeria and Africa as a whole,” he said.
The alumni event associated with the Chartered Master Mariner Annual Award brings together individuals who have previously received this honor to inspire the younger generation of mariners.
Captain Kunle, made great impact in the development of maritime in Nigeria, West Africa, and the entire world maritime.
Captain Kunle, is the first Fellow of The Nautical Institute in Africa and has to his credit Master of International Law, from World Maritime University,Malmo Sweden.
He was in the Nigerian Navy for over a decade before switching into the merchant Navy, after voluntarily retired from the Navy.
Captain Kunle sailed on so many types of ships and worked as District Surveyor, Zonal Coordinator and Head of Enforcement Monitoring Unit in Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.
The desire of Captain Kunle is to see Nigeria as one of leading maritime nation in the world, transparent maritime operation activities and operators to keep to honest, integrity and good ethical conduct standard.
The award of Chartered status is a gold standard for those who deserve the accolade of eminence. It will serve to recognise Master Mariners which have not only benefited the industry but have also improved capability and demonstrated a willingness to help others. Chartered Master are technical partners to International Maritime Organisation and many others.
