The Oron Youth Movement has criticised the Governing Council of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, over its reported resistance to the institution’s transition into the University of Maritime Studies, as established by an Act of the National Assembly in 2022.
The council had reportedly warned that the upgrade could trigger funding constraints, security risks, and a dilution of the academy’s specialised mandate, potentially affecting its international recognition. It also argued that maintaining the academy as a technical institution was essential for meeting global maritime standards.
In a statement released in Uyo, the Oron Youth Movement described the council’s position as unfounded and inconsistent with both Nigerian law and international maritime education frameworks.
Signed by National President Edet Eyo and other executive members, the group stated that the academy has operated without security issues for decades, dismissing the council’s concerns as baseless.
The group stressed that the University of Maritime Studies Establishment Act already provides transparent and sustainable funding channels, including federal allocations, grants, and partnerships. It accused the council leadership of attempting to derail a lawful transition for personal interests.
It urged the Federal Government to investigate the council and demanded the resignation of its chairman, reaffirming its commitment to seeing the academy upgraded to a full-fledged maritime university.
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