In a bid to enhance the recognition and acceptance of Certificates of Competence (CoC) from Nigeria and other nation’s within West and Central Africa, the Alumni of Maritime Academy of Nigeria (AMANO) and the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control for West and Central African Region are exploring partnerships to enhance the value of CoCs.
Both organizations deepened this partnership when the leadership of AMANO paid a courtesy visit to the Secretary General of Abuja MOU, Capt. Sunday Umoren, recently.
Speaking after the engagement, the President of AMANO, Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa, expressed delight at the Abuja MOU’s efforts in driving the initiative of Mutual Recognition of CoCs.
His words: “We were delighted to learn of the Abuja MOU’s efforts in driving the initiative of Mutual Recognition of Certificate of Competencies amongst the member states.”
“AMANO expresses strong support for this policy, which will expand the horizons for seafarers in Nigeria and other member states to gain employment on ships of different flags within the block.”
He equally noted that it was insightful to learn about the efforts of the Abuja MOU, under the leadership of Capt. Sunday Umoren, to meet the minimum 15% Port State Inspection by member states especially in capacity building with the drive to establish Port State Training Centers.
“We believe that the move to establish Port State Training centers will improve access to human capacity building and in turn, improve ship standards. Currently, the Port State inspector trainings are done in Europe and other areas outside the block, which comes at a high cost and logistics difficulties,” the AMANO President observed.
While the AMANO leadership explored partnerships to actively contribute to the goals of the MoU with its extensive network of maritime experts and professionals, the alumni also tagged the visit as a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with a fellow alumnus, Capt. Umoren, who is making remarkable strides in the maritime industry.
“We had a heartfelt discussion about the ongoing initiatives and achievements of the Abuja MoU under Capt. Umoren’s exceptional leadership. His dedication to improving maritime safety, security, and environmental protection in West and Central Africa has been inspiring. His passion for the industry aligns with the values we hold dear at AMANO.”
“This visit was a reminder of the strong bonds we share and our collective responsibility to contribute to the growth and development of the maritime sector. We are proud of Capt. Umoren’s efforts and look forward to continuing our collaboration with him and the Abuja MoU,” the group said.
The AMANO President was accompanied on the visit by the Financial Secretary, Frances Inoma, and Lagos Chapter Representative, Agassi Jonathan, for the visit.
This information was disseminated via a press statement signed by the AMANO Public Relations Officer, Mr. Oamien Ailemen.