Niger Delta Varsity Matriculates First Postgraduate Students

By Chiamaka Ozulumba

The Niger Delta University (NDU), has matficulated its first set of Post-Graduate Diploma (PGD) students in Marine Surveying.

The ceremony, which was both virtual and physical, had 68 students at the maiden edition.

Addressing the students in his keynote speech, the Executive Secretary Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Wabote, emphasised need for improved efficiency in maritime operations in Nigeria to improve global competitiveness.
He hinted that improved predictability and transparency in maritime operations, will go a long way in boosting confidence in the sector, which will in turn, bring about increased revenue.

According to him, “Marine surveyors are greatly relied upon by the marine community to perform a wide range of tasks like advise purchasers, underwriters and lending institutions on the condition and valuation of vessels, and advising vessel owners on how to recover or salvage a vessel in distress.

Wabote advised the students to brace up and be passionate, as they go through academics and training.

“I am excited to welcome you to the great Niger Delta University, where academic excellence is enforced with godliness. I wish to also let you know that mechanisms have been put in place for a safe and serene learning environment.

“So I charge you to make the most of the opportunity afforded you and ensure that you attend classes, shun all forms of deviant behaviours and other vices, and focus on why you are here.”

Also speaking, the President, Centre for Marine Surveyors Nigeria, Prince Adebambo Ademiluyi, said the NCDMB decided to sponsor the training of the students because of the critical role marine surveyors play in the industry.

“The Centre for Marine Surveyors Nigeria is recognised as a professional body promoting the professionalism, recognition and training of marine surveyors,” he added.

The president further harped on the need for improved efficiency in maritime operations in Nigeria to improve global competitiveness, predictability and transparency in maritime operations to boost confidence in the sector and bring increased revenue.

“Marine surveyors are greatly relied upon by the marine community to perform a wide range of tasks including; advising purchasers, underwriters, and lending institutions on the condition and valuation of vessels, advising vessel owners on how to recover or salvage a vessel in distress.”

Ademiluyi maintained that marine surveyors play a prominent role in the industry, but expressed concern that the nation does not have enough marine surveyors.

“Hence, the reason why we started this programme.”