The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Nigeria has honoured Dr Kevin Okonna, Acting Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron for his distinguished leadership in Logistics and Transport and infrastructure development in the Academy.
This is contained in a statement issued by Mrs. Domo Umoekpe, Head of Public Affairs Department, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Sunday.
Umoekpe said that the award was presented during the 2025 National Conference and Awards Ceremony of the Institute.
She said the President of CILT, Nigeria, Mrs. Mfon Usoro, while presenting the award, highlighted the Institute’s strategic partnership with MAN and commended Okonna for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to repositioning the Academy as a centre of excellence in maritime education in Africa.
Usoro said that the award to Okonna was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to development in maritime education and training in Nigeria’s premier maritime institution.
“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 is worthy of emulation.
“Under his watch in just 10 months, the Academy has achieved quite significant milestones, his leadership has been marked by extensive reforms on training standards, infrastructure renewal, upgrading of teaching facilities in the academy.
“His tenure has also strengthened collaboration with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Nautical Institute, UK, Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and other global maritime bodies,” Usoro said.
Okonna in his response, 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 general.
“This recognition is deeply appreciated. It is a call to a higher responsibility. This award reflects the collective effort of the Management, Staff 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 said.
