Maritime Academy Boss Gets Outstanding Leadership Award

The acting rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Dr Kevin Okonna, has received an Award for Distinguished Leadership in Logistics and Transport from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria.

The award, presented over the weekend during the 2025 National Conference and Awards Ceremony of the Institute in Lagos, recognised his outstanding contributions to maritime education, capacity development in maritime education, and training in MAN, Oron.

Speaking on the award, the president of CILT, Nigeria, Barr. Mfon Usoro highlighted the Institute’s strategic partnership with MAN and commended Dr Okonna for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to repositioning the Maritime Academy of Nigeria as a centre of excellence in maritime education in Africa.

“Dr Okonna has shown exceptional leadership and professionalism in ensuring the Academy continues to meet international standards. His passion and zeal for the development of the Academy are worthy of emulation,” Mrs Usoro stated.

Shortly after receiving the award, the Acting Rector expressed appreciation to CILT Nigeria for the honour, describing it as a call to continue striving for excellence in his service to the maritime industry and the nation.

In his words, “This recognition is deeply appreciated. It is a call to a higher responsibility. This award reflects the collective effort of the Management, Staff, Students and Cadets of the Academy, whose dedication continues to drive our progress.”

“It means that what we do quietly is seen and valued. We’re ready to continue doing more for CILT, the industry and the country as a whole,” he added.

The CILT recognition underscores the acting rector’s enduring legacy of excellence while also reinforcing the Academy’s stance as Nigeria’s foremost maritime education and training institution.