In a significant diplomatic milestone on the sidelines of the 110th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110), Nigeria has officially flagged off its campaign for election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium.
The high-level campaign launch, led by Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, took place on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the prestigious Delegates’ Lounge of the IMO headquarters in London.
The event attracted a distinguished gathering, including the IMO secretary-general, Arsenio Dominguez, permanent representatives, alternate representatives, high-ranking diplomats and maritime delegates from more than 120 IMO member states. It provided Nigeria with a unique platform to reaffirm its strategic maritime relevance and reiterate its commitment to strengthening global shipping governance.
In his keynote address, Oyetola conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Tinubu, GCFR and underscored Nigeria’s steadfast dedication to the IMO’s mission.
“Today, we formally announce Nigeria’s candidacy for re-election to the IMO Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 term,” he declared. “As a responsible maritime nation located at the heart of the Gulf of Guinea — one of the world’s busiest and most security-sensitive shipping corridors — Nigeria remains unwavering in its support of the IMO’s vision for safe, secure, environmentally responsible, efficient and sustainable shipping.”
Oyetola spotlighted the success of Nigeria’s acclaimed Deep Blue Project as a prime example of maritime security innovation. Coordinated by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the multi-faceted project integrates air, land, and sea assets to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime territory. He noted that the project has delivered impressive results, including zero piracy incidents within Nigerian waters over the last three years — a feat widely praised by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) and global partners.
Beyond security, the minister outlined Nigeria’s robust maritime reform agenda. He highlighted that Nigeria has ratified and domesticated several critical IMO instruments and is currently advancing the adoption of additional conventions addressing greenhouse gas emissions, marine biofouling and seafarers’ welfare, further demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to environmental stewardship and human capital protection.
Oyetola also drew attention to Nigeria’s demographic advantage and vast human resource potential. “With a population surpassing 240 million people – 60 per cent of whom are under 19 years old – Nigeria stands ready to contribute significantly to the global maritime workforce. Through continued investment in maritime education and capacity development, we aim to produce over two million skilled seafarers within the next decade,” he said.
He emphasised that inclusivity and gender equity remain central to Nigeria’s maritime strategy. “We are intentionally empowering women in the maritime sector, supporting policies and programmes that open more opportunities for female seafarers, port managers and industry leaders. True progress must be inclusive and collaborative,” he stressed.
Oyetola assured delegates that Nigeria’s history of constructive engagement within the IMO will continue to guide its future contributions. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to providing technical assistance, sharing expertise, and championing the interests of fellow developing nations, including small island developing states (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs).
“A vote for Nigeria is a vote for diversity, mutual respect, and balanced decision-making in shaping the future of global maritime governance. We are ready to partner with all Member States to build safer seas, foster greener shipping, and create an inclusive maritime economy,” Oyetola concluded.
Also addressing the gathering, the director-general of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to advancing global maritime security, promoting environmental sustainability, and ensuring equitable participation in international shipping affairs.
He assured delegates that, if re-elected, Nigeria would lead responsibly, foster enduring partnerships and deliver on a transformative maritime agenda designed to benefit the global maritime community and contribute to a resilient and prosperous blue economy for all.
As the IMO Council elections draw near, Nigeria’s campaign signals a determined push for meaningful representation, enhanced collaboration, and sustainable growth within the international maritime system.
