Africa’s Ferry Safety Development and Mentoring Programme has successfully concluded Module Four: Introduction to Engine Systems, strengthening the technical knowledge and practical marine engineering skills of participating mentees.
The August 2026 module focused on equipping mentees with practical knowledge of critical engine systems and marine engineering operations through a combination of self-paced learning, expert mentorship and hands-on onboard training.
The first two weeks featured self-paced learning facilitated by Engr. Jeremiah Akwemioh, a seasoned Nigerian Navy veteran with extensive experience in marine engineering and engine systems.
The third week featured an “Ask the Expert” virtual session with Interferry mentors Joep Bollerman, Vice President of Passenger Ships and Director of the Cruise Ship Center of Expertise at Lloyd’s Register, and Francesco Ruisi, Global Passenger Ship Segment Director at Lloyd’s Register.
The training culminated in a practical onboard session aboard MV ONONEZE, an American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)-classed vessel owned by Fymak Marine & Oil Services Nig. Ltd.
The vessel, equipped with four Cummins main engines, four propellers, a bow thruster and a combined output of 5,368kW (7,200 BHP), provided the mentees with an opportunity to observe marine engine operations and auxiliary systems in a real-world environment.
During the practical session, participants gained firsthand exposure to generators, purifiers, sewage treatment plants, air compressors and vessel piping systems, deepening their understanding of the relationship between theoretical knowledge and onboard operations.
The programme acknowledged the contributions of the Fymak Marine management and vessel crew, including Captain Aniekan Udo, Chief Officer Abiodun Erewa, Chief Engineer Emmanuel Ezekudo and Engr. Paul Etarijakpere, whose operational experience added significant value to the training.
Appreciation was also extended to module facilitator Jeremiah Akwemioh and Interferry mentors Joep Bollerman and Francesco Ruisi for their technical guidance.
The organisers further recognised the support of Interferry, Shari Corrigan, FerrySafe, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), the Lagos State Government, and Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, whose support continues to advance maritime capacity development.
The programme will proceed to Module Five: Safety Management Systems in September 2026, with Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry, scheduled to lead the next phase of the training.
The organisers said the continued mentorship and practical exposure are aimed at raising professional standards and developing a stronger generation of maritime and ferry safety practitioners across Africa.
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