The NLNG Ship Management Limited (NSLM) has achieved a significant milestone with its Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE), a Hub for maritime training, research, and competence development. The Hub has successfully secured international certification from the UK Nautical Institute.
Speaking in Lagos during a media parley, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Abdulkadir K. Ahmed noted that the certification from the UK Nautical Institute is a strong validation of the quality, rigour, and relevance of the training delivered at the Centre. “It confirms that the MCOE meets internationally accepted standards for competence development and operational excellence.”
He further disclosed that certification falls in line with other global recognitions and approvals the Hub had received.
“Importantly, this is not the first recognition of its kind, the MCOE is already accredited by DNV under globally recognised standards, including ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and the DNV-ST-0029 standards for Maritime Simulator and Training Centres,” he said. “These certifications reinforce our commitment to quality, consistency, and excellence in training delivery. Building on this foundation, the MCOE is now licensed by the UK Nautical Institute to deliver key Dynamic Positioning (DP) programmes, including induction, simulator, revalidation, and vessel maintenance courses. Today, the Centre stands as one of the institutes in West Africa with this level of Nautical Institute accreditation for DP training.”
Established as a one-stop centre for world-class maritime expertise, MCOE operates from Bonny Island, Rivers State, serving Nigeria, West Africa, and the global maritime community. The Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and modern training facilities designed to support the continuous professional development of seafarers and maritime professionals, with an expanding portfolio of both mandatory and specialised courses.
Pointing out that the certifications and recognitions are the result of deliberate and sustained effort, as they reflect strategic investment in infrastructure, curriculum development, instructor capability, and robust quality assurance systems, Ahmed said they lend credence to the standard of training and expertise developed here in Nigeria, which can compete with the best anywhere in the world.
“It enhances the employability and mobility of Nigerian maritime professionals with internationally recognised training; our seafarers are better positioned to access opportunities across global fleets and offshore operations,” he buttressed.
He further surmised: “Beyond the industry, the impact is broader, a stronger maritime workforce contributes directly to trade, shipping, offshore operations, and the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy supporting job creation, productivity, and national competitiveness.”
The CEO of NSML reassured of the organisation’s commitment to growth and development: “Looking ahead, NSML remains committed to further strengthening the Maritime Centre of Excellence, expanding access to maritime training for young Nigerians, and deepening partnerships that align with international standards. Our ambition is clear to build a maritime institution that Nigeria is proud of, and one that is respected across the global maritime community.”
