NSML Wins Maritime Award, Backs Human Capital as Key to Shipping Transformation
NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has been honoured with the Maritime Excellence Service Award by the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) — a recognition of its transformational role in advancing Nigeria’s maritime capacity, sustainability, and shipping innovation.
The award was presented during AMJON’s 2025 National Maritime Conference at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, where NSML also reaffirmed its commitment to capacity development as a strategic response to the evolving global maritime regulatory landscape.
Representing Managing Director Mr. Abdulkadir Ahmed, Mr. Mutiu Olayiwole, NSML’s Manager of Finance & Corporate Services, delivered a keynote titled:
“The Evolving Global Maritime Regulatory Environment – The Role of Maritime Training and Capacity Development.”
Decarbonisation, Digitisation and Workforce Adaptation
Ahmed noted that the maritime sector — responsible for over 80% of global trade flows — is undergoing a regulatory transformation driven by:
- IMO’s decarbonisation mandates
- Digital integration and cybersecurity threats
- Higher demands for safety, sustainability, and automation
“These shifts require more than policy compliance — they demand a workforce that is agile, future-ready, and technically equipped to navigate complexity,” he said.
He stressed that maritime training must be retooled to close widening skill gaps and foster competence in areas such as environmental regulations, cybersecurity, digital vessel operations, and international maritime conventions.
NSML’s Strategic Edge: Maritime Centre of Excellence and Cadet Development
Ahmed spotlighted NSML’s bold investment in people through the Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) located in Bonny Island, Rivers State. The MCOE:
- Is Africa’s first UK MCA-accredited maritime training facility
- Is DNV-certified and NIMASA-approved
- Delivers STCW 2010-compliant training aligned with global standards
This institutional asset positions NSML as a frontrunner in building local capacity for global maritime excellence.
Through its Structured Cadetship Development Programme (SCDP), NSML has trained over 200 cadets, many of whom now serve onboard its vessels or inshore roles — contributing to:
- 85% Nigerianisation of vessel crew
- 100% Nigerian staffing in shore-based operations
Investing Beyond Training: Modern Fleets and Simulation Technology
NSML’s leadership extends beyond classrooms. The company:
- Operates one of Africa’s most advanced maritime simulation suites, with real-time bridge, engine, cargo, and emergency response modules.
- Is leading the construction of a 23,000m³ LPG carrier in South Korea
- Is executing a fleet renewal strategy, replacing aging steamships with dual-fuel LNG vessels like AXIOS II and AKTORAS
These moves position NSML as a technology-forward, efficiency-driven shipping operator capable of competing on the world stage while supporting Nigeria’s energy export ambitions.
BRANDECONOMY INSIGHT: Why Maritime Capacity is Strategic for Nigeria’s Energy Ecosystem
NSML’s model exemplifies how human capital, digital infrastructure, and fleet modernization can transform Nigeria’s maritime value chain. With LNG, LPG, and other energy exports heavily reliant on marine logistics, the convergence of shipping and energy investments is now mission-critical.
“We are not just building ships — we’re building the future of Nigeria’s maritime economy,” Ahmed said, reaffirming NSML’s commitment to talent, safety, innovation, and sustainability.
Bottom Line:
NSML is redefining Nigeria’s maritime narrative — from cargo movers to capability builders. As global shipping faces decarbonisation and digital disruption, NSML’s focus on training, fleet renewal, and local content makes it not just a vessel operator, but a strategic force for national competitiveness in the global energy logistics arena.
