Federal College of Fisheries and Maritime Technology Achieves Record Matriculation, Embarks on Ambitious Expansion
Lagos, Nigeria – The Federal College of Fisheries and Maritime Technology (FCFMT) Victoria Island, Lagos, has marked a historic moment in its institutional journey, admitting a record-breaking 1,200 students during its 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony. This figure represents the largest intake of students since the college’s establishment, signalling a significant period of growth and development.
The ceremony, a cornerstone event for new students, also served as a platform for the college’s leadership to highlight substantial advancements under the current administration. Dr. Onuoha Paul Chuks, the Provost, addressed the gathering, underscoring the significance of the record matriculation and detailing a series of strategic initiatives that have propelled the institution forward.
A Transformative Era for FCFMT
Dr. Chuks elaborated on the administration’s achievements, which extend far beyond increased student enrollment. Key among these is the substantial expansion of academic programmes, which have more than doubled from seven to fifteen. This growth is complemented by the establishment of two new departments, bolstering the college’s offerings and catering to a broader spectrum of specialized fields within fisheries and maritime studies.
Furthermore, the college has witnessed considerable infrastructural development, a crucial factor in supporting its enhanced academic and research capabilities. Dr. Chuks attributed these advancements to the visionary leadership and directives of President Bola Tinubu, specifically his initiative to align FCFMT with the newly established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This strategic alignment, he explained, has unlocked new opportunities and resources for the college.
Key Achievements Under Current Administration:
- Record Student Intake: Matriculation of 1,200 students, a substantial leap from the 298 students admitted in the 2019/2020 academic session.
- Programme Expansion: Increase in academic programmes from seven to fifteen.
- New Departments: Establishment of two additional departments to broaden specialized study areas.
- Infrastructural Development: Significant advancements in campus facilities to support increased student numbers and enhanced learning environments.
- Alignment with National Goals: Integration with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to foster national development in the maritime sector.
Fostering Academic Excellence Through Collaboration
The Provost emphasized the importance of judicious use of time by the newly admitted students, encouraging them to seize the opportunities presented by the college. He further highlighted that the college’s progress is significantly driven by a robust network of national and international collaborations and partnerships. These alliances are instrumental in advancing the college’s mission of academic and research excellence.
FCFMT actively engages with leading institutions to create pathways for research, academic exchange, and degree awards. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with prominent organizations such as the University of Lagos, Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Chisquares Incorporated in Atlanta, USA, and Winrock International are testament to this commitment. These partnerships facilitate joint research projects, faculty exchange programs, and the development of specialized academic curricula.
Global Recognition and Enhanced Certification
A significant milestone for FCFMT is the recent securing of approval from the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for its National Diploma (ND), Higher National Diploma (HND), and professional programmes. This accreditation signifies that FCFMT’s offerings meet international standards, enhancing the employability and recognition of its graduates on a global scale.
The college is also on the cusp of receiving final certification for its professional certificate programmes. This includes crucial certifications such as the Certificate of Competency (COC), which are vital for maritime professionals. The availability of these certifications is further bolstered by the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Bridge Simulator Class A, equipping students with advanced practical training facilities that mirror real-world maritime operations. This investment in cutting-edge technology ensures that FCFMT graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry. The expanded capacity and enhanced offerings position FCFMT as a pivotal institution for nurturing the next generation of leaders in the fisheries and maritime sectors, both within Nigeria and across the wider West African region.
