The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that beneficiaries of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) receive top-quality training and are fully prepared for global employability. This assurance was given by NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Mobereola, amid reports claiming that the agency plans to withdraw 296 NSDP cadets currently studying at Centurion University, India.

Dr. Mobereola clarified that the reports were false, stating that the agency is merely conducting due diligence on the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the university to ensure it aligns with the best interests of the Nigerian students. He emphasized that NIMASA is not recalling any cadets but is instead working to address identified gaps in the MoU before moving forward.

“A situation where the Agency entered into a contractual agreement with Springdale Academy of Maritime Education and Training (SAMET) with agreed courses and timelines, only to face additional course duration and an unapproved program change by the agent, SAMET, is not in the best interest of the students,” Dr. Mobereola explained. He also highlighted concerns regarding the non-accreditation of one of the institutions at the time of the MoU execution, as well as changes in course content and additional years of study that were not communicated to NIMASA.

In response to media campaigns and petitions against the agency’s review of the existing arrangement, Dr. Mobereola stated that NIMASA will not be swayed by blackmail. He affirmed that the safety and well-being of the students remain the agency’s top priority.

The NSDP, launched in 2009, aims to develop the capacity of young Nigerians by training them as seafarers, thereby addressing the global shortage of qualified seafarers. The program offers specialized courses in Marine Engineering, Nautical Sciences, and Nautical Surveys, among others, to ensure that Nigerian youths are adequately trained and globally employable.

NIMASA’s Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, also confirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to the program, stressing that NIMASA will continue to prioritize the interests of its students and uphold the highest standards in maritime training.