Mr. Oyegade explained that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the institute’s curriculum with specialized courses, aligning with the Nigerian Navy's expansion of its fleet and the adoption of new technologies over the years.
He shared this vision during the inaugural convocation and graduation ceremony of the NIT held in Sapele, Delta State, on Friday.
Originally established as the Nigerian Navy Technical Training Centre (NNTTC) in 1982, the institute plays a crucial role in advancing the Nigerian Navy’s Research & Development initiatives.
Mr. Oyegade noted that a strategic decision made in 2020 aimed to align the institute’s programs with international best practices and national standards.
This decision led to the accreditation of several four-year Artificer courses by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), transforming them into Higher National Diploma (HND) programs.
He emphasized that achieving NBTE accreditation enhances the credibility and recognition of the institute’s qualifications, facilitating graduates' transition into further academic or professional opportunities. This development will expand their career options both within the Navy and in the broader job market.
In addition to ensuring that graduates possess technical skills and strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, he stated that NBTE accreditation will expose students to advanced technologies, positioning the institute as a center for innovation.
“This transition not only benefits the graduates but also enhances the operational efficiency and reputation of the Nigerian Navy as a whole,” Mr. Oyegade remarked.
The transition is expected to enhance the NIT's role as a key contributor to the Nigerian Navy’s Research & Development initiatives, enabling it to secure funding from various government bodies, including the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), among others.
He emphasized the vast potential of the Institute, noting that, similar to its Air Force equivalent, the Nigerian Navy aims to evolve the NIT into a fully operational polytechnic that will eventually welcome civilian students in the near future.
On Friday, the institute celebrated the graduation of 88 students who completed their training in Marine Engineering, Weapon Electrical Engineering, and Automobile Engineering.
Among the graduates, 46 specialized in Marine Engineering, 27 in Weapon Electrical Engineering, and 15 in Automobile Engineering.
Additionally, 28 students from the Student Officers Application Course also graduated.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Emmanuel Ogalla, a vice admiral, was represented by the Chief of Naval Engineering, Baratuaipri Iyalla, a rear admiral, who attended the event as the special guest of honor.
Other notable attendees included the Director of Weapons Electrical Engineering at Naval Headquarters, I.U. Ubani, a rear admiral, and the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC), Istifanus Abara, a rear admiral, represented by Kasimu Bushi, also a rear admiral.
The institute has received accreditation to offer National Diplomas in Marine Engineering and Electrical/Electronic Engineering, as well as a Higher National Diploma in Electrical/Electronic Engineering with a focus on Electronics and Telecommunications.
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Commandant, NIT, Rear Admiral Sunday Oyegade |
Mr. Okegade announced that the institute is close to obtaining accreditation for its Higher National Diploma programs in Marine Engineering and Electrical/Electronic Engineering, specifically in the Power and Machine options.
Additionally, the institute has established procedures to seek approval from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for National Diplomas in Welding and Fabrication, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Computer Science.
“This transformation will ensure that our graduates are well-prepared for naval service and capable of competing globally as certified engineering technologists,” he stated.
In wishing the graduates success, Mr. Oyegade urged them to embody the values they have learned throughout their training.