Scores of maritime students from various institutions across Nigeria staged a peaceful protest at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) headquarters in Lagos, recently.
The students, holding placards and chanting solidarity songs, demanded solutions to the growing unemployment crisis among maritime graduates.
Key demands by the students include; Sea time training where they emphasised the need for practical experience to obtain Certificates of Competency (CoC) and pursue careers in seafaring.
On Job opportunities graduates expressed frustration over lack of job placements, despite completing academic requirements.
They also called for local training and university investment, urging NIMASA to create sustainable pathways for cadet training and invest in maritime universities.
The students noted that without sea time experience, graduates cannot obtain CoC, hindering their professional growth.
They emphasised that neglect after graduation has left many idle, despite having certificates.
The demonstration remained peaceful, with students emphasising their intention to appeal to authorities rather than disrupt activities.
As of press time, NIMASA had not issued an official response. The students’ protest highlights the need for industry stakeholders to address the challenges facing maritime graduates.