By: Tijani Salako.

In a bid to strengthen expertise in the maritime industry, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has unveiled the Institute of Maritime Studies at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), while emphasising knowledge-driven development as a key driver of economic growth.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the minister described the initiative as a defining milestone in Nigeria’s collective resolve to strengthen institutional capacity, promote innovation, and deepen the human capital base needed to position the maritime and blue economy as a cornerstone of national prosperity.

“This state-of-the-art facility, comprising well-equipped lecture rooms and functional administrative spaces, is a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to knowledge-driven development.

“It reflects our belief that the future of the blue economy will be shaped not just by natural endowments but also by the quality of minds we nurture within institutions such as this,” he said.

Oyetola further stated that the vision for Nigeria’s marine and blue economy is anchored on the sustainable exploitation of ocean resources, economic diversification, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dayo Mobereola, disclosed that capacity building remains one of the agency’s core mandates.

Mobereola explained that, through the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), NIMASA has implemented a workforce development initiative aimed at bridging the talent gap in the maritime industry by training 2,497 youths.

The Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, noted that the building, which represents the first phase of the Institute of Maritime Studies Complex, was donated by NIMASA.

According to her, the institute provides quality and experiential learning opportunities for students drawn from various maritime organisations and private shipping companies.

“We do this in collaboration with experts from the industry. The facility represents a major investment in human capital development. It features modern lecture rooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, and other equipment to support practical training, research, and innovation.

“These facilities will significantly enhance learning and equip our faculty, students, and participants with the competencies required in today’s dynamic global maritime industry,” she said.