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From Joe Effiong, Uyo
The Nigerian High Commissioner to Jamaica, Dr. Mrs. Maureen Tamuno has expressed surprise at the quality of educational facilities at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Akwa Ibom State, as well as the tranquility in the academy.
Dr Tamuno, who said this during her visit to the academy, described the transformational strides of the Rector, Commodore Duja Emmanuel Effedua (Rtd) as unprecedented.
The High Commissioner who is also Nigeria’s Permanent Representative at the International Seabed Authority (ISA) said to the Rector: ““I have followed up your activities in the Maritime Academy of Nigeria and I must say it is quite commendable.”
She explained that the International Seabed Authority (ISA), is an international organisation covered by the United Nations Law of the Sea, that was birthed principally to protect weaker countries from external encroachment by countries with stronger military might.
The High Commissioner who facilitated informal sessions on Inspection, Compliance and Enforcement (ICE) in the African region, said the authority was working on the laws with the aim of reviewing them to see how they can be more beneficial to mankind.
Explaining that the seabed is rich in numerous minerals that could help build the economy in future, she noted that part of what ISA is doing is to build capacity in Nigeria. She said the visit to the Academy was part of ISA efforts to create awareness about the activities of the Authority, and that it was agreed that the Authority would be holding workshops in five different countries including Nigeria.
Accordingly to her, the workshop is expected to provide a forum for interaction with the Secretary General of the Authority, Mr Michael W. Lodge who is expected to be present. On his part, the Rector welcomed the ISA Team and expressed satisfaction on the activities of the Authority at regulating mining and maritime related activities globally.
While recounting that prior to his appointment, the institution was in a state of total collapse, he assured the visitors that the institution has moved away from that state of infrastructural deficit, against all odds and now better positioned for global competitiveness.
He also said that certificates issued by the academy are recognised internationally, adding that the faculties are strong with competent lecturers and enhanced curriculum to cater for the current training needs in the maritime industry.
