The Nigerian Ship Management Ltd. (NSML) says its Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) in Bonny, Rivers State, has secured the UK’s Nautical Institute certification for Dynamic Positioning training.
NSML Managing Director Abdul-Kadir Ahmed announced this milestone at a Lagos press conference on Thursday. He described it as a landmark for manpower development and a significant boost for Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He stated that the certification would help domesticate international maritime expertise, allowing Nigerian professionals to compete globally without traveling abroad for training.
Ahmed explained that the MCOE functions as a comprehensive hub focused on training, research, competency development, and specialized maritime projects.
He noted that over the years, MCOE had evolved into West Africa’s most advanced facility, equipped with cutting-edge simulators and modern learning infrastructure.
“The UK accreditation authorizes DP induction, simulator training, revalidation, and vessel maintenance courses. Few regional centres offer this full package.
“Industry stakeholders see this approval as a strong endorsement. It confirms the centre’s training quality, rigor, and compliance with global standards,” he said.
Ahmed emphasized that increasing global demand for competence requires seafarers and offshore personnel to meet higher safety and operational standards.
“MCOE already holds DNV ISO 9001 certification for quality management and complies with DNV ST-0029 standards for maritime simulators and training.
“The centre also offers MCA-accredited programmes covering tanker operations, human element leadership, high-voltage training, and advanced maritime skills.
“This certification provides Nigerians with globally recognized qualifications, enhancing their employability on international vessels and offshore platforms,” he added.
He pointed out that local training would reduce foreign exchange costs and dependence on overseas institutions, while building domestic capacity.
Ahmed stressed that NSML viewed this as a responsibility, not just a celebration. The organization is committed to raising standards and expanding access to maritime training.
He reaffirmed that its key vision remains domestication of global maritime skills, emphasizing that NSML was established so Nigerians can meet world standards locally.
Finally, Ahmed announced plans to pursue full MCA accreditation for MCOE, aiming to establish a complete one-stop centre and position Nigeria as Africa’s maritime hub.
