The article discusses the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), which aims to improve Nigeria's ability to manage its own coastal shipping. Former NIMASA Director Onwuka Igwe explained that this program was created to train local workers, so Nigeria no longer needs to rely on foreign operators for its maritime activities. Igwe mentioned that the NSDP was established to address a shortage of skilled Nigerian workers in the maritime industry, especially as many current seafarers are getting older. The program has successfully trained nearly 2,500 young Nigerians in different areas of shipping at top maritime schools around the world. The goal is for these trained individuals to fill the necessary roles in Nigeria's coastal shipping, which will help reduce the country's dependence on foreign seafarers and strengthen local participation in the maritime sector.
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