For many young Nigerians training to become seafarers, completing mandatory sea experience, or “seatime,” remains a challenge. While maritime institutions churn out hundreds of cadets each year, the country lacks sufficient vessels to give them practical experience on board ships.
This week, the Alumni Association of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology (FCFMT), with support from the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), sponsored 87 cadets for free basic mandatory training in security, seamanship, and fisheries management. Ten outstanding students also received scholarships to study in India.
Speaking at the certificate presentation in Lagos, Captain Williams Ogunsakin, president of the alumni association, highlighted the urgent need for a national training vessel to accommodate the growing number of cadets. “It is unfortunate that Nigeria does not have ships to give cadets their seatime. We are ready to work with the school, but the government must step in,” he said.
Cadets like 22-year-old marine engineering student, Chidimma Eze, expressed hope but also frustration. “We study and train hard, but without sea experience, finding work is almost impossible. We need ships, not just promises,” she said.
Industry experts urge partnerships, government investment, and international collaboration to ensure Nigeria’s next generation of seafarers gain the experience they need to compete globally.
