Build Nigeria’s maritime sector capacity, stakeholders urge WMU Alumni Association

Stakeholders in the Nigerian Maritime terrain have tasked the World Maritime University Alumni Association, (WMUAA), Nigerian chapter to drive capacity building in Nigeria’s maritime sector in keeping with the ideals of their alma mater, World Maritime University, Sweden.

The charge came recently during the inauguration of the Nigeria chapter of the WMU Alumni Association which also doubles as the welcome dinner for WMU graduate set of 2023 and oath taking ceremony for the newly appointed exco of the Association.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Magdalene Ajani, who was represented by Hajia Aisha Bisalla, urged the newly appointed exco to hold at heart the professionalism of their alma mater and work towards strengthening best practices in the sector.
She said the members of the alumni body are not only beneficiaries but also “torch bearers” who would inspire professional excellence for the industry.

Giving his address at the meeting, Special Guest of Honour, Rear Admiral Olugbode, gave four cardinal life tips to make the alumni body thrive.

He said: “Measure twice, cut once. On policy matters, make sure you always draw it with what other countries have done and draw a regional example and when you are advising, cut once.

“Success attracts many fathers and mothers. Try anything even by way of writing. We need to be more intentional, drive advocacy on the sustainable use of the oceans and there are so many channels. Right now, the Ministry is sourcing for resource people to join this advocacy.

“Ensure continuous learning and lastly look for a mentor and mentor someone. If you need somebody you cannot see, just read their book. Also, look for one surbordinate and give that person a part of yourself. Make him your mentee. Have a succession plan for yourself.”

Olugbode stated that with such knowledge sharing drive, the alumni body can engineer a new generation of leaders equipped to advance the course of Nigeria’s maritime environment.

On his part, President of the World Maritime University, Mr. Max Mejia, commended the alumni body in Nigeria for setting up the Association while encouraging them to embrace lifelong learning.

Giving his own address earlier, the President, WMU Alumni Association, Nigeria chapter, Mr. Lawrence Chukwu, said that the Association was formed to be a platform for collaboration, sharing of industry best practices and driving conversations for maritime capacity development in Nigeria.