The Nigerian Government has appointed Kevin Okonna as the acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN) Oron in Akwa Ibom, effective immediately. This appointment follows the resignation of the former rector, Commodore Duja Effedua (rtd), from his position.
In a statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs at the Academy Domo Umoekpe, the appointment was communicated through a letter from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, on behalf of the Nigerian Government. The minister expressed confidence in Okonna’s ability to contribute to the academy’s goals and urged him to leverage his extensive experience in the maritime sector to drive progress.
Okonna is a highly respected maritime scholar, with nearly three decades of dedicated service to the academy. He holds numerous professional qualifications, including credentials from esteemed institutions such as the World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden. Over the years, he has served the academy in several key roles, including as the pioneer Head of the Maritime Safety Department, Director of the defunct MAN Consultancy Services, and Director of Strategy and Research and Development Directorate.
A distinguished member of the Nautical Institute (UK) and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Okonna’s wealth of experience and leadership will play a crucial role in advancing the academy’s mission. Umoekpe highlighted that his appointment aligns with the Federal Government’s continued efforts to support the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy’s vision and contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. Okonna’s leadership is expected to further strengthen the Academy’s role in maritime education and development.
