AMANO Leadership Visits Abuja MoU, Commends Capt. Sunday Umoren’s Maritime Leadership

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The Alumni Association of Nigerian Maritime Academy (AMANO) recently paid a courtesy visit to Captain Sunday Umoren, Secretary-General of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to discuss ongoing initiatives and achievements under his leadership in the maritime industry.
The visit offered a unique opportunity to reconnect with a distinguished alumnus who is making significant contributions to maritime safety and environmental protection in West and Central Africa.

During the visit, AMANO President Emmanuel Maiguwa highlighted the importance of the Abuja MoU’s work under Capt. Umoren’s leadership, noting, “We are deeply inspired by Capt. Umoren’s dedication to enhancing maritime safety, security, and environmental protection across the region. His efforts resonate with the core values we uphold at AMANO.”

Oamien Ailemen, AMANO’s Publicity Secretary, in a press statement in Saturday reflected on the significance of the visit, saying that Capt. Umoren had elaborated on the current initiatives of the Abuja MoU, emphasizing its focus on the Mutual Recognition of Certificate of Competencies among member states.

“This policy is a game-changer for seafarers in Nigeria and the entire region,” he explained. “It allows our seafarers to work on ships under different flags, thereby expanding employment opportunities and fostering regional integration in the maritime sector.”

AMANO expressed strong support for this initiative, recognizing its potential to significantly benefit Nigerian seafarers and those from other member states.

The AMANO delegation praised the policy, saying, “The Mutual Recognition initiative is a progressive step that will undoubtedly create more job opportunities for our seafarers and enhance their global competitiveness.”

The discussion also touched on the Abuja MoU’s commitment to achieving the minimum 15% port state inspection rate by member states, a goal driven by capacity-building initiatives and the establishment of Port State Training Centers across the region.

“Currently, Port State inspector training is conducted in Europe and other locations outside our region, which poses high costs and logistical challenges,” Capt. Umoren noted. “By setting up training centers locally, we aim to reduce these barriers, improve access to training, and ultimately enhance ship standards in our waters.”

Emmanuel Maiguwa assured Capt. Umoren of AMANO’s support in these endeavors, stating, “AMANO, with its extensive network of maritime experts, is well-positioned to assist the Abuja MoU in achieving its mandate. We are eager to contribute actively, particularly in promoting marine safety and fostering a culture of excellence in the maritime sector.”

The visit also underscored the strong bond between AMANO and its alumni, as well as their shared commitment to advancing the maritime industry. “We are incredibly proud of Capt. Umoren’s leadership and the positive impact he is making,” Maiguwa added. “This visit reminded us of our collective responsibility to support the growth and development of the maritime sector.”

“We are here to strengthen our collaboration with the Abuja MoU and to explore how AMANO can contribute more effectively to its goals.”

The visit concluded with Maiguwa expressing gratitude to Capt. Umoren and his team for their warm reception and commending the Nigerian government for its support of the Abuja MoU Secretariat. “Your efforts and the support of the Nigerian government exemplify true leadership and commitment to regional maritime safety,” he said.

Frances Inoma, Financial Secretary of AMANO, and Agassi Jonathan, Lagos chapter representative were present at the visit.