UNIZIK Set for NIMASA Maritime Building Commissioning as VC Receives Institute, Project Consultants
By Nweke Ebuka
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has recorded another significant milestone in its drive to strengthen maritime education and infrastructure as the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, received a delegation from the Institute of Maritime Studies and consultants handling the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Maritime Building Project.
The delegation, which visited the Vice-Chancellor on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, briefed him on the progress of the project and preparations for the official handover of the completed first phase of the NIMASA Maritime Building to the University.
Speaking during the meeting, the Director of the Institute of Maritime Studies, UNIZIK, Prof. Ifeanyi Christian Enete expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for his unwavering support and commitment to the growth and development of the Institute. He noted that the visit was to provide an update on the Institute’s activities and the status of the NIMASA-funded project.
Also addressing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Austine Ezezue of Frank Power Limited, the project consultant, announced that the first phase of the Maritime Building Project had been completed and is ready for official handover.
According to him, the completed phase consists of a modern administrative building fully equipped with the facilities and infrastructure required for efficient academic and administrative operations. He further highlighted the strategic importance of situating maritime training close to the river, explaining that such an environment is essential for providing students with practical exposure and hands-on learning that meets international standards in maritime education.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Anyaehie, commended the Institute and the consultants for their dedication and professionalism in delivering the first phase of the project. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure the Institute achieves its mandate, particularly through enhanced security and the provision of accommodation within the riverine area of Onitsha to facilitate practical training, research, and innovation.
Professor Anyaehie also proposed July 16 and 17, 2026, as tentative dates for the commissioning of the completed first phase of the Maritime Building, subject to the conclusion of necessary arrangements. He expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its partnership with Nnamdi Azikiwe University, describing the collaboration as a strategic investment in the future of maritime education and manpower development in Nigeria.
The Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed his commitment, as the University’s seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor, to providing the leadership and institutional support required to ensure the continued success of the project and the Institute of Maritime Studies.
Other members of the delegation included Engr. Nwaiwu Okechukwu of MPI Infrastructure and Mr. Oduche Chidera of Frank Power Limited.