Managing Director, NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, and Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, NLNG, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, during the NSML Media Parley held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, on Thursday.

The Maritime Centre of Excellence MCOE, Nigeria’s hub for maritime training, research, and competence development, owned by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited NSML, has successfully received another international certification, this time, from the UK Nautical Institute.

The MCOE, which operates from Bonny Island, Rivers State, serving Nigeria, West Africa, and the global maritime community, is designed as a one-stop centre for world-class maritime expertise. It is equipped with state-of-the-art simulators and modern training facilities designed to support the continuous professional development of seafarers and maritime professionals, with an expanding portfolio of both mandatory and specialised courses.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Thursday, Managing Director/CEO, NSML, Abdulkadir K. Ahmed, disclosed that this latest certification from the UK Nautical Institute is a strong validation of the quality, rigour, and relevance of the training delivered at the Centre. It confirms that the MCOE meets internationally accepted standards for competence development and operational excellence.

“Importantly, this is not the first recognition of its kind, The MCOE is already accredited by DNV under globally recognised standards, including ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems and the DNV-ST-0029 standards for Maritime Simulator and Training Centres.

“These certifications reinforce our commitment to quality, consistency, and excellence in training delivery. Building on this foundation, the MCOE is now licensed by the UK Nautical Institute to deliver key Dynamic Positioning DP, programmes, including induction, simulator, revalidation, and vessel maintenance courses. Today, the Centre stands as one of the institutes in West Africa with this level of Nautical Institute accreditation for DP training.

“In addition, the MCOE delivers a range of specialised courses accredited by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency MCA, widely regarded as the gold standard in maritime training globally. These include programmes in Gas Tanker Operations, Dynamic Positioning, Human Element Leadership and Management, ECDIS, and High Voltage Training at both operational and management levels”, Ahmed said.

He listed some of benefits of the UK certification to Nigeria as a shipping nation, which include the fat that it strengthens the country’s global standing, certification by globally respected bodies and affirms that the standard of training and expertise developed here in Nigeria can compete with the best anywhere in the world.

It also enhances the employability and mobility of Nigerian maritime professionals with internationally recognised training; as Nigerian seafarers are better positioned to access opportunities across global fleets and offshore operations, while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to building capacity locally, as the milestone demonstrates clearly that world-class maritime training can be delivered here in Nigeria, reducing reliance on foreign institutions while raising national capability.

Other benefits include that tt also reinforces safety and professionalism within the sector, given that maritime operations demand discipline, technical competence, and continuous learning. It also implies that the certifications obtained by the MCOE affirm that the professionals trained at the Centre meet high international expectations in performance, safety, and operational readiness, among several others.

He said: “Beyond the industry, the impact is broader, stronger maritime workforce contributes directly to trade, shipping, offshore operations, and the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy supporting job creation, productivity, and national competitiveness.

“Let me emphasise that this achievement is the result of deliberate and sustained effort, it reflects strategic investment in infrastructure, curriculum development, instructor capability, and robust quality assurance systems. Our goal has always been clear to build not just a training institution, but a true Centre of Excellence. While we are proud of this milestone, we also recognise the responsibility it brings, it challenges us to continue raising standards, deepening innovation, and maintaining global best practices in everything we do.

“Looking ahead, NSML remains committed to further strengthening the Maritime Centre of Excellence, expanding access to maritime training for young Nigerians, and deepening partnerships that align with international standards. Our ambition is clear to build a maritime institution that Nigeria is proud of, and one that is respected across the global maritime community.

“I would like to acknowledge the dedication of our staff, instructors, partners, and stakeholders whose commitment has made this achievement possible.”