NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has reaffirmed its commitment to maritime training and human capital development as pivotal to navigating the rapidly changing global maritime regulatory environment.
Speaking at the 2025 Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) Conference held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, NSML’s Managing Director, Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed—represented by Mr. Mutiu Olayiwole, Manager, Finance & Corporate Services—delivered a paper titled “The Evolving Global Maritime Regulatory Environment – The Role of Maritime Training and Capacity Development.”
Ahmed emphasized that the maritime sector, as a critical component of global trade, is undergoing swift regulatory shifts driven by environmental imperatives, technological advancement, and workforce expectations. He cited the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) decarbonisation goals and the growing emphasis on cyber risk mitigation as key factors shaping the current regulatory climate.
He underscored the need to bridge emerging skills and knowledge gaps through continuous curriculum updates in areas such as environmental compliance, digitalization, cybersecurity, and the practical application of international maritime conventions.
“Compliance, safety, and operational efficiency depend on our ability to train and empower seafarers and maritime professionals to adapt and thrive,” Ahmed noted.
Highlighting NSML’s strategic investment in talent development, Ahmed pointed to the Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) in Bonny, Rivers State—the first African facility accredited by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (UK MCA), certified by DNV, and approved by NIMASA to deliver STCW 2010-compliant courses.
“NSML remains committed to advancing Nigeria’s maritime growth not only through vessels and infrastructure but through deliberate investments in people,” he added.
At the event, NSML was honoured with the Maritime Excellence Service Award by AMJON, in recognition of its impactful contributions to sustainable shipping, high-quality training, and operational transformation within the Nigerian maritime industry.
Through its Structured Cadetship Development Programme (SCDP), NSML has trained over 200 cadets, leading to an 85% Nigerianisation rate aboard NSML-managed vessels and 100% Nigerian staffing in onshore positions.
NSML also operates one of Africa’s most advanced maritime simulation suites, offering real-time, immersive training in bridge, engine room, cargo handling, and emergency response.
Beyond training, NSML continues to lead industry innovation with projects such as the construction of a 23,000m³ LPG vessel in South Korea and its ongoing fleet renewal initiative, which includes modern dual-fuel LNG carriers like AXIOS II and AKTORAS.
Ahmed also commended AMJON for its role in fostering maritime dialogue and reaffirmed NSML’s dedication to building a resilient, safe, and future-ready maritime industry in Nigeria and across Africa.
