Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) has extended its hands of fellowship to the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron local government area of Akwa Ibom State for a strategic partnership to harness the blue economy potentials for economic development of the state and country.
The collaboration would also cover core areas of education, maritime logistics, transport, professional development and other exchange programmes.
The state branch chairman of CILT, Mr. Itoro Effiong, disclosed this when he led a delegation of the institute on a courtesy visit to the newly appointed acting rector of the MAN, Oron, Dr. Kelvin Okona.
Speaking at the forum, the CILT boss expressed the Institute’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Academy in areas of maritime logistics, transport education, and professional development.
While congratulating the acting rector for his appointment, Effiong, noted his track – record in maritime leadership and education, noting that “the appointment came at a critical time for the maritime and logistics sectors, which are undergoing global and local transformation.”
He pointed out the historic role of the Maritime Academy in shaping seafarers and maritime professionals across Africa and stressed the need to align the Academy’s mission with that of CILT to strengthen Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms.
“We believe that by strengthening partnerships with institutions like the Maritime Academy, we can jointly tackle critical industry challenges such as capacity building, technological advancement, and policy alignment with international standards,” Effiong stated.
Responding, the acting rector commended CILT for its continued dedication to maritime and logistics education and pledged robust synergy and support for the Institute, especially in the areas of training courses, cadet membership, monitoring, and engagement.
Other areas of cooperation included a membership expansion drive, capacity building , and addressing the issue of lost CILT accreditation.