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By Gabriel Dike
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, has unveiled a multimillion naira Institute of Maritime Studies complex donated by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
The building which was commissioned by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, is to boost the study of maritime studies and related field of research.
In her speech, the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, said the university is poised to be the engine room of marine and blue economy.
Prof. Ogunsola described the commissioning of the institute as a landmark and recalled that NIMASA some years back had called for the establishment of the institute to boost maritime studies and research.
She explained that the Institute of Maritime Studies, UNILAG was established in 2013 in response to the call by NIMASA for developing maritime manpower in-country and which has evolved into a strong partnership to proffer contextual solutions to the problems of the blue economy.
The VC said since then, the university have remained committed to building capacity not only for Nigeria but for the entire African continent, adding, “as at today, the Institute has graduated 2,000 students and over 400 students have registered for this academic session.
“We currently offer postgraduate programmes that cover critical areas in Maritime Administration and Management, Hydrographic Surveying, Maritime Communications and Navigation, Maritime Environmental Studies, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management. We deliver quality and experiential learning to our students drawn from a broad spectrum of maritime organisations, including NIMASA, NPA, the Nigerian Navy, the Shippers’ Council, CRFFN, and private shipping companies.”
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Ogunsola said the facility represents a major investment in human capital development, which features modern lecture rooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and other equipment to support practical training, research, and innovation.
“These facilities will significantly enhance direct learning and equip our faculty, students and participants (Public & private sector) with the competencies required in today’s dynamic global maritime industry,” she noted.
The VC commended minister, the management of NIMASA for their continued support in the establishment and development of the Institute, which is aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice in the maritime sector.
Commissioning the institute, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s marine and blue economy through sustained investment in human capital and infrastructure.
Oyetola described the institute as a milestone that reflects the government’s resolve to strengthen institutional capacity and position the blue economy as a key driver of national prosperity.
The Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, disclosed that the agency is partnering with eight Nigerian universities, as well as international institutions including the World Maritime University, to strengthen maritime manpower development.
He observed that building a skilled offshore workforce will enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and create sustainable employment opportunities.
Mobereola noted that the NIMASA–UNILAG partnership will boost research, support data-driven policymaking, and produce industry-ready professionals to meet evolving demands in the maritime sector.
