NIMENA Chairman Eferebo Bags Maritime Innovation Award

The National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA), Engr. Dr Sylvanus L. Eferebo, has received the Maritime Innovation and Technology Leadership Award at the 2026 Democracy Heroes Award Africa.

Eferebo received the award at the 15th edition of the ceremony, themed “Elevate”, held on Friday, October 9, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

The recognition, presented under the Special Honour 2026 category, acknowledges his contributions to marine engineering, technological innovation and leadership in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Eferebo has more than two decades of experience in technical consulting and leadership in the country’s maritime and offshore engineering industry.

He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Marine Engineering, a Master of Technology degree in Naval Architecture and Ship Construction, and a PhD in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.

He is a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE).

Eferebo is also the chief executive officer and managing director of Somatrix Marine Limited, a firm involved in marine consultancy, ship design, marine surveys, construction management, research and development.

He also chairs the Governing Board of the Centre for Marine and Offshore Technology Development (CMOTD) at Rivers State University.

Beyond his professional practice, Eferebo has contributed to engineering regulation and maritime policy. He has served as principal technical consultant to the House Committee on Nigerian Content Development in the 10th National Assembly and chaired COREN’s Sector Committee on Engineering Regulation, Monitoring and Enforcement for Maritime.

As NIMENA national chairman, he has prioritised professional standards, membership development, indigenous research, innovation and collaboration among government, industry and academia.

In January 2026, NIMENA celebrated his elevation to the rank of Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, describing the achievement as recognition of his contributions to the profession.

The latest award has attracted congratulatory messages from prominent personalities, including Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, as well as friends, associates and well-wishers.

The Democracy Heroes Award Africa is organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria Projects to recognise individuals for their contributions to leadership, public service, democratic development and national progress.

The 2026 ceremony brought together public office holders and professionals from various sectors to recognise their contributions to governance and development.