President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the academic strides of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU), reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the institution’s infrastructural and research development. He also charged graduating students to apply their knowledge toward advancing the nation’s maritime sector.
Delivering his address through Prof. Edoba Omoregie (SAN), Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, at NMU’s 2nd Convocation Ceremony held over the weekend in Okerenkoko, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, President Tinubu praised the university’s commitment to fostering values that promote peace and regional stability.
He urged the graduates to uphold excellence, integrity, and service, while making meaningful contributions to national growth, particularly in the maritime industry and other sectors that can enhance the country’s economic potential.
Earlier in his address, NMU Vice Chancellor, Professor (Engr.) Emmanuel Adigio, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for signing the bill formally establishing the university into law. He noted that the President’s assent reflects a deep commitment to education and technological advancement.
Prof. Adigio assured the gathering that NMU will continue to produce top-tier professionals equipped with innovative ideas to drive sustainable growth in the maritime sector. He emphasized the university’s dedication to fulfilling the trust placed in it by the federal government.
“In the next few years, NMU will witness significant expansion in its academic programmes focused on harnessing the potentials of the marine and blue economy,” he said. “We remain grateful to President Tinubu for his focus on the university’s growth.”
He highlighted the university’s role in promoting peace and reducing youth restiveness and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, stating that NMU’s presence has contributed to improved security in the region’s waterways and oil infrastructure.
Regarding academic offerings, Prof. Adigio stated that NMU commenced operations in 2018 with 13 programmes across three faculties—Engineering, Environmental Management, and Transportation—and a Basic Studies Unit, which is set to evolve into a full-fledged Faculty of Science.
The VC explained that NMU currently operates a two-campus structure, with academic activities beginning at the Kurutie Campus, while the main campus is located in Okerenkoko. He acknowledged challenges such as high construction costs due to the terrain but said the university continues to manage its limited resources efficiently.
He highlighted achievements such as the provision of water facilities, thanks to partnerships with the Kurutie community and SPDC; the commissioning of faculty buildings and workshops funded by SPDC and TETFund; and infrastructure support from the Delta State Government, including a newly constructed faculty complex and access road.
All thirteen of the university’s academic programmes have been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC), and five engineering programmes are accredited by COREN. The VC also emphasized the university’s adherence to transparent financial management practices.
In terms of staff and capacity development, Prof. Adigio reported ongoing support for both academic and non-teaching staff, with access to scholarships, conferences, and workshops. He also noted a significant improvement in student accommodation, including newly completed and soon-to-be commissioned hostels on both campuses.
However, he pointed out the lack of staff housing as a major challenge, calling on the federal government and development partners for support.
On sports, the VC noted the completion of a gym building and the university’s success at the 2025 FISU Trials, where NMU athletes won multiple medals and qualified to represent Nigeria in Germany.
He also highlighted the university’s growing international presence, including a recent MoU with Earth Law Center Africa and the successful hosting of its first international conference on the Blue Economy.
Prof. Adigio reaffirmed NMU’s commitment to quality assurance and academic excellence, stating that the university has developed a framework for continuous improvement in all its programmes.
The 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 combined convocation ceremony saw the graduation of 870 students—a 273% increase from the previous convocation—underscoring the institution’s rapid growth.
“We celebrate all our graduates today, and commend the parents and guardians whose support made this moment possible. These young men and women are equipped to face the world and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he concluded.