The National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA), Engr. Dr. Sylvanus L. Eferebo, has bagged the Maritime Innovation and Technology Leadership Award at the 2026 Democracy Heroes Award Africa.
Eferebo received the recognition at the 15th edition of the award ceremony, themed “Elevate,” held on Friday, October 9, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
The award, presented under the Special Honour 2026 category, recognises his contributions to marine engineering, technological innovation and leadership in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
His recognition comes amid efforts to strengthen indigenous expertise, promote research and innovation, and develop local capacity to support Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy ambitions.
Eferebo is a seasoned marine engineering professional with more than two decades of experience in technical consulting and leadership within Nigeria’s maritime and offshore engineering industry.
He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Marine Engineering, a Master of Technology degree in Naval Architecture and Ship Construction, and a PhD in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding from Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.
He is a registered engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE).
He also serves as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Somatrix Marine Limited, a firm involved in marine consultancy, ship design, marine surveys, construction management and research and development.
He also doubles as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Center for Marine and Offshore Technology Development (CMOTD) Rivers State University.
Beyond his professional practice, Eferebo has contributed to engineering regulation and maritime policy. He has served as Principal Technical Consultant to the House Committee on Nigerian Content Development in the 10th National Assembly and chaired the COREN Sector Committee on Engineering Regulation, Monitoring and Enforcement for Maritime.
As NIMENA National Chairman, he has prioritised professional standards, membership development, indigenous research, innovation and stronger collaboration among government, industry and academia, with the broader objective of positioning Nigerian maritime professionals for greater opportunities locally and internationally.
The award adds to the professional recognition he has received for his contributions to engineering. In January 2026, NIMENA celebrated his elevation to the rank of Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, describing the achievement as a testament to his dedication and impact on the profession.
Meanwhile, the award has attracted congratulatory messages from prominent personalities, including the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, as well as friends, associates and well-wishers, who have joined in celebrating the NIMENA chairman’s achievement.
The 2026 Democracy Heroes Award Africa, organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria Projects, celebrates individuals whose contributions to leadership, public service, democratic development and national progress have made a notable impact.
The ceremony brought together distinguished Nigerians from different sectors, including public office holders and professionals, to recognise their contributions to governance and development.
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