By Providence Ayanfeoluwa

The Nigerian maritime industry has recorded a major boost as NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited, NSML, secured international certification from UK Nautical Institute for the Maritime Centre of Excellence, MCoE, to position Nigeria as a growing hub for world-class maritime training and competence development.

MCoE, located on Bonny Island in Rivers State, was established as a one-stop hub for maritime training, research, and professional development, a facility which serves not only Nigeria but also West Africa and the wider global maritime community through its advanced simulators, modern training infrastructure, and expanding portfolio of specialised courses.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, said that the latest certification, the first recognition of its kind, is a strong validation of the quality, rigour, and relevance of the training delivered at the Centre.

He added that it confirms that the MCOE meets internationally accepted standards for competence development and operational excellence.

The Centre, equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and modern training facilities is designed to support the continuous professional development of seafarers and maritime professionals, with an expanding portfolio of both mandatory and specialised courses.

Ahmed said “MCOE is already accredited by DNV under globally recognised standards, including ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and the DNV-ST-0029 standards for Maritime Simulator and Training Centres. These certifications reinforce our commitment to quality, consistency, and excellence in training delivery.

“Building on this foundation, the MCOE is now licensed by the UK Nautical Institute to deliver key Dynamic Positioning (DP) programmes, including induction, simulator, revalidation, and vessel maintenance courses. Today, the Centre stands as one of the institutes in West Africa with this level of Nautical Institute accreditation for DP training.

He further revealed that the Centre offers a range of specialised courses accredited by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), widely regarded as one of the leading authorities in global maritime training. The programmes cover areas such as Gas Tanker Operations, Dynamic Positioning, Human Element Leadership and Management, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), and High Voltage Training at both operational and management levels.

Ahmed said the latest certification would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s global maritime reputation by demonstrating that training and expertise developed locally can compete with the highest international standards. He added that internationally recognised qualifications would improve the employability and mobility of Nigerian seafarers, enabling them to access opportunities across global shipping fleets and offshore operations.

He also stressed that the milestone reinforces NSML’s commitment to local capacity building. According to him, “the certification proves that world-class maritime education and training can be delivered within Nigeria, reducing dependence on foreign institutions while enhancing national capabilities and expertise.

Beyond training and certification, Ahmed highlighted the broader economic benefits of a stronger maritime workforce. He said improved competence among maritime professionals would contribute directly to trade, shipping, offshore operations, and the development of Nigeria’s blue economy, creating jobs, improving productivity, and boosting national competitiveness.

He reaffirmed NSML’s commitment to expanding access to maritime training for young Nigerians, strengthening strategic partnerships, and maintaining global best practices. “Our ambition is clear, to build a maritime institution that Nigeria is proud of and one that is respected across the global maritime community.”