UNN reaffirms commitment to research, innovation to drive national development

The University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research and innovation, as part of efforts to drive national development and maintain global relevance.

Simon Ortuanya, Professor and Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, made this known, during the 3rd International Conference of the Institute of Maritime Studies held at the university’s Enugu Campus (UNEC).

He was represented at the event by
Josephat Onwunere, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University.

According to him, the institution remains dedicated to fostering strategic engagements that promote innovation and contribute meaningfully to both national growth and global scholarship.

He noted that the Institute of Maritime Studies exemplifies this vision, by positioning UNN as a key contributor to maritime research and policy dialogue.

Ortuanya, described the conference theme, “From Global Maritime Regulations to Tangible Actions: Driving Sustainable Operations in the African Maritime Sector,” as a reflection of a critical global challenge ,translating regulatory frameworks into practical, measurable outcomes.

He observed that while maritime regulations worldwide have evolved rapidly in areas, such as environmental protection, safety, trade facilitation and security, the real challenge lies in there effective domestication, enforcement and impact, particularly in developing maritime economies like Nigeria.

The Vice-Chancellor stressed that Africa’s maritime sector remains vital for economic growth, regional integration and sustainable development and added that ports, shipping systems, and blue economy initiatives must not only comply with international standards but also embrace innovation, inclusiveness and environmental responsibility.

“Conferences like this provides a vital platform, where academia, policymakers and industry stakeholders can engage, exchange ideas and develop solutions that are globally informed yet locally adaptable,” he said.

Florence Orabueze, Director, Centre for Maritime Studies, described the conference as more than an academic gathering, but a convergence of ideas and shared responsibility toward a sector central to global commerce and sustainable development.

She explained that the institute was founded with a vision to bridge the gap between theory and practice, as well as align academic inquiry with industry realities.

According to her, “the institute has evolved into a centre of excellence known for intellectual rigour, interdisciplinary collaboration and practical relevance.” She said.

Orabueze noted that the institute had developed a robust academic framework covering maritime law, business, logistics, environmental governance, tourism, engineering and blue economy studies and added that its postgraduate programmes, including PGD, MSc and PhD, continue to attract a growing number of students.

She further stated that the institute had produced skilled professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of the maritime sector, while also strengthening partnerships with government agencies, industry leaders and international organisations.

“Our contributions, through research, publications, conferences and collaborations continue to shape maritime discourse and influence policy and practice,” she said.

She added that the institute’s annual workshops, conferences and its publication, the University of Nigeria Maritime Studies and Research Journal, provide platforms for scholars to share knowledge and advance ideas within the field.