The Minister for Transport, Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has been appointed by the Board of Governors of the Regional Maritime University (RMU) as Chancellor and Chairman of the Board during the 35th Meeting of the RMU Board of Governors held in Accra.

The Hon. Minister succeeds Ambassador Col. (Rtd) Alhaji Fanday Turay, Esq. from the Republic of Sierra Leone, and takes over the leadership mantle at a time when the University continues to consolidate its position as a leading centre for maritime education, training, and research in Africa.

Expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by the Board and member states, the Minister reiterated Ghana’s unwavering commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to further enhance the stature of the Regional Maritime University as a premium institution on the African continent.

“I am honoured to assume this important responsibility and look forward to working closely with the Board, Management, faculty, and all stakeholders to strengthen institutional governance, promote academic excellence, foster research and innovation, and position the University to effectively respond to the evolving needs of the global maritime industry,” Hon. Nikpe stated.

He acknowledged the invaluable support and commitment of the University’s member states, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon and Ghana, whose collective efforts have contributed significantly to the institution’s growth and sustained relevance over the years.

He noted that the Regional Maritime University has distinguished itself as a premier institution for maritime education and capacity building, producing highly skilled professionals who continue to play pivotal roles in advancing the maritime, transport, and logistics sectors across the sub-region and beyond.

Hon. Bukari Nikpe assured member states of Ghana’s readiness to deepen cooperation and strengthen partnerships aimed at transforming RMU into a globally competitive centre of excellence for maritime studies, innovation, and professional training.

He further underscored the importance of positioning the University to contribute meaningfully to regional integration, sustainable maritime development, and the advancement of Africa’s blue economy.

“As member states, we share a common vision of building a stronger Regional Maritime University that serves as a beacon of excellence and remains responsive to emerging trends and opportunities within the global maritime industry,” he stressed.

He commended his predecessor, Ambassador Col. (Rtd) Alhaji Fanday Turay, Esq., for his dedicated service, leadership, and contributions to the advancement of the University, pledging to build upon the solid foundation established during his tenure.

The Regional Maritime University remains one of Africa’s foremost institutions for maritime education and training and continues to produce professionals equipped to support the sustainable growth and competitiveness of the maritime sector across the continent.