NSML Maritime Centre of Excellence Secures UK Nautical Institute Certification, Boosting Nigeria’s Global Maritime Standing.
NSML Maritime Centre of Excellence Secures UK Nautical Institute Certification, Boosting Nigeria’s Global Maritime Standing.
Lucky Akra
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria LNG Ship Management Limited (NSML), Abdulkadir K. Ahmed, has announced that the company’s Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) has secured international certification from the UK Nautical Institute, marking a major milestone for Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Speaking at a press conference held at Eko Hotel in Lagos on Thursday 4th of June 2026,Ahmed described the certification as a significant validation of the quality and global relevance of the training programmes offered by the centre.
The Maritime Centre of Excellence, located on Bonny Island in Rivers State, serves as a regional hub for maritime training, research, and competence development. Equipped with advanced simulators and modern training facilities, the centre provides both mandatory and specialised courses for seafarers and maritime professionals across Nigeria, West Africa, and beyond.
According to Ahmed, the certification confirms that the MCOE meets internationally recognised standards for competence development and operational excellence.
“This latest certification from the UK Nautical Institute is a strong validation of the quality, rigour, and relevance of the training delivered at the Centre,” he said.
The NSML boss noted that the achievement builds on previous recognitions already secured by the institution. The MCOE is accredited by DNV under internationally recognised standards, including ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and the DNV-ST-0029 standards for Maritime Simulator and Training Centres.
He explained that the new accreditation authorises the centre to deliver key Dynamic Positioning (DP) programmes, including induction, simulator, revalidation, and vessel maintenance courses, making it one of the few institutions in West Africa with Nautical Institute accreditation for DP training.
The centre also offers specialised courses accredited by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), including Gas Tanker Operations, Dynamic Positioning, Human Element Leadership and Management, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), and High Voltage Training at both operational and management levels.
Ahmed said the development represents a major boost for Nigeria’s maritime sector, enhancing the international competitiveness of locally trained professionals.
He noted that globally recognised certifications would improve the employability and mobility of Nigerian seafarers, enabling them to access opportunities across international shipping fleets and offshore operations.
The certification, he added, also demonstrates that world-class maritime training can be delivered within Nigeria, reducing dependence on foreign training institutions while strengthening local capacity.
Industry observers believe the achievement will contribute to improved safety, professionalism, and operational readiness within the maritime sector, as certified training programmes are designed to meet stringent international standards.
Photo Caption:
Managing Director, NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed (centre), flanked by Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, NLNG, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku; and Manager, Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE), Bonny, Dr. Effiong Ekanem-Attah, during a media parley hosted by NSML in Lagos on Thursday.
Ahmed further highlighted the broader economic benefits of a stronger maritime workforce, noting that enhanced human capacity would support trade, shipping, offshore operations, and the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy, while contributing to job creation and national competitiveness.
He attributed the achievement to sustained investment in infrastructure, curriculum development, instructor training, and quality assurance systems.
“Our goal has always been clear — to build not just a training institution, but a true Centre of Excellence,” Ahmed said.
Looking ahead, he reaffirmed NSML’s commitment to expanding access to maritime training for young Nigerians, strengthening industry partnerships, and maintaining global best practices.
Photo Caption:
Managing Director, NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, and Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, NLNG, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, during the NSML Media Parley held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, on Thursday.
“Our ambition is to build a maritime institution that Nigeria is proud of, and one that is respected across the global maritime community,” he stated.
Ahmed concluded by commending the dedication of NSML staff, instructors, partners, and stakeholders whose contributions helped make the certification possible.
