How to become a seafarer in Nigeria 

In Nigeria, like every other clime, becoming a seafarer requires some academic certificates and practical knowledge.

It is important to note that certificates are not enough without practical experience at sea.

It therefore means that as certificates alone are not enough, even as practical knowledge of the sea time alone cannot qualify one as a seafarer but must acquire both certificates and practical knowledge.

The following are some of the courses offered in maritime academies in Nigeria depending on the choice of individual candidate.

Marine Meteorology and Oceanography.

Hydrography.

Nautical Science

Boat/Ship Building Technology

Maritime Transport & Business Studies

Electrical/Electronics Engineering

All these courses are for duration of two years each at both the National Diploma and Higher National Diploma levels in the maritime institutions.

The following are some of the requirements a prospective seafarer must acquire to qualify for the entry into the institutions to study any of the courses.

A potential seafarer must obtain Credits in 5 relevant O level subjects. Mathematics and English language are compulsory.

Here, the candidate must have five credits in subjects relevant to his or her choice course of study.

The candidate must attend a Maritime institution/School which could either be public or private.

There are many accredited maritime institutions in Nigeria offering different courses in seafaring.

Aternatively, on the job training/progression is.possible for anyone that wants to become a seafarer,if you have Senior Officer on board a vessel.

The person must have International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) 95 – Mandatories.

He/she must have sea time experience .

He/she must have eligibility for Officer On Watch (OOW).

He must join Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers &Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNOWTSSA), the only union for Nigeria Officers

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