A transformative milestone was achieved as ninety-eight maritime delegates, sponsored by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), completed their boot camp and refresher course at the Joemarine Institute of Nautical Studies and Research, Otomewo, Delta State. This group of cadets successfully graduated after a one-month intensive vocational training in maritime-related skills, equipping them for potential careers in Nigeria’s rapidly growing maritime industry.
A New Dawn for the Niger Delta Maritime Sector
The formal close-out ceremony, which took place on Tuesday at the institute’s premises, marked the culmination of an intensive training program aimed at equipping the delegates with critical skills in maritime professions. These skills are essential for contributing to Nigeria’s blue economy — a sector that holds enormous untapped potential for national development.
In attendance at the event was Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), who expressed his profound satisfaction at the successful completion of the course. Dr. Otuaro highlighted that the training was part of PAP’s ongoing commitment to providing critical human capital development to the Niger Delta region, with a focus on vocational skills, empowerment, and sustainable economic growth.
Otuaro’s Vision for Sustainable Growth and the Blue Economy
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Otuaro lauded their commitment and discipline throughout the training. He reaffirmed that their participation in this specialized program was integral to the development of the Niger Delta region, which has been historically underdeveloped in terms of skilled manpower. “I am very delighted that you have successfully completed your boot camp and refresher course. This marks another significant milestone that underscores our efforts towards the sustainable development of the Niger Delta,” Otuaro said.
He further emphasized that the program’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s policy on the blue economy would harness the vast resources in Nigeria’s maritime sector, with cadets poised to contribute to this vision. “Your training in specialized maritime skills is strategic, and it aligns perfectly with the policy of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to develop and exploit the enormous opportunities in the nation’s maritime industry for national development.”
Key Milestones in Human Capital Development
The PAP has long recognized the need for specialized training to ensure that Niger Deltans are equipped with skills that match industry demands. Dr. Otuaro stated that under his leadership, PAP remains committed to continuously investing in human resources through various vocational and educational programs. “More importantly, your training in specialized maritime-related skills is very strategic. This is in line with President Tinubu’s vision to foster economic growth and improve the livelihoods of Niger Deltans,” he added.
He also underscored that the PAP would continue to expand its training initiatives in other areas, such as formal education, post-training empowerment, and specialized skills in diverse trade sectors. These initiatives are designed to foster sustainable peace, growth, and stability within the region.
Praising the Efforts of the Joemarine Institute
Joemarine Institute of Nautical Studies and Research, which hosted the cadets for the duration of the program, received commendations for their high standards in executing the training. Akpos Epidei, the Managing Director/CEO of the institute, expressed gratitude to the PAP for entrusting them with the task of training the maritime cadets. He acknowledged the institute’s commitment to the success of the program and pledged continued support for the cadets as they move forward into the workforce.
“On behalf of Joemarine Institute, I would like to express our sincere thanks to the Presidential Amnesty Programme for trusting us with this important responsibility. The success of this program is a direct reflection of the hard work and commitment of both our staff and the PAP team,” Epidei stated.
He also highlighted that further specialized training, such as higher certification programs, would be necessary to fully prepare the cadets for work onboard vessels. Epidei promised that the institute would continue to support the PAP’s efforts in producing highly competent maritime professionals.
Assessment and Recommendations for Further Development
As part of the program’s assessment process, the Joemarine Institute also provided feedback to the PAP regarding the progress of the delegates. The internal evaluation indicated that while many cadets had excelled, some would benefit from additional training to further enhance their readiness for the industry. The institute’s recommendation for more specialized courses is designed to ensure that the delegates can maximize their potential in the maritime industry. A detailed list of trainees, their progress, and suggested follow-up training programs were shared with the PAP administration for future consideration.
Epidei added, “We have observed that many of the delegates have the potential to perform excellently in the maritime sector, and we recommend further training to enhance their competencies and readiness for onboard duties. This will help increase personnel competency and contribute to the nation’s growing maritime workforce.”
Gratitude from Graduates
The event also featured a heartfelt speech from one of the graduating cadets, Ebi Jackson, who thanked the PAP and the institute for the invaluable training. Jackson noted that the program had equipped him and his fellow cadets with the tools necessary to succeed in the maritime industry, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy. “This training has been an eye-opener. We now understand the importance of professionalism and discipline in the maritime industry, and we are ready to take on the challenges ahead,” he said.
Looking towards the future
The successful completion of this maritime training program has set a new standard for PAP’s commitment to equipping the youth of the Niger Delta with the skills necessary for both personal and regional development. With the knowledge gained, these maritime cadets are now poised to seize opportunities in the blue economy, a key area for national growth.
The PAP continues to focus on providing relevant vocational and technical skills to the Niger Delta youth, ensuring that they are prepared to take up roles in the blue economy and other vital sectors. With this new batch of trained maritime professionals, the PAP is making significant strides towards building a sustainable, skilled workforce for Nigeria’s future.
A Commitment to Lasting Impact
Joemarine Institute’s role in this success story cannot be overstated, as they remain committed to supporting the PAP’s reintegration agenda and ensuring that these trained maritime cadets contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of the Niger Delta and the country at large.
Dr. Otuaro closed his speech with a reaffirmation of the PAP’s mission: “Our focus on manpower development in various sectors, including maritime, continues to be one of our top priorities. The successful completion of this program is just the beginning. We will continue to offer opportunities for growth, skills development, and empowerment for the youth of the Niger Delta region, in line with our commitment to national development.”
As the cadets embark on their career paths, they are encouraged to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence and to contribute to the growth of the blue economy, where their expertise is needed the most.
Support Quality Journalism in the Niger Delta Region
Join us in our mission to bring development journalism, cultural preservation, and environmental awareness to the forefront. Your contribution makes a difference in the lives of the people of the Niger Delta. Donate today and be a part of the change!
