In a significant boost to Nigeria’s international maritime diplomacy, the United Republic of Tanzania has formally endorsed Nigeria’s bid for election into category ‘C’ of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.
The endorsement underscores the deepening strategic ties between the two nations and reflects a shared vision for advancing Africa’s role in global maritime governance.
The endorsement was announced during a courtesy visit by the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Selestine Kakele, to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola at his office in Abuja.
While expressing Tanzania’s full support, Kakele emphasised the historical solidarity between both countries, particularly Nigeria’s previous backing of Tanzania’s own IMO aspirations. He described Nigeria as a strategic partner with vast maritime experience and noted that both nations are aligned in their ambitions to position Africa as a major player in global maritime affairs.
“We view Nigeria not only as a friend but as a partner in maritime progress. Your country’s leadership and vision in the blue economy space make this endorsement a natural choice,” Kakele stated. “This is a continuation of mutual respect and cooperation between our nations.”
The high commissioner also announced that a technical team of Tanzanian maritime professionals would be dispatched to Nigeria in the coming months. The team is expected to engage with Nigerian maritime institutions and study the frameworks, reforms and innovations Nigeria has adopted to boost its marine and blue economy sector.
In response, Oyetola expressed profound appreciation for Tanzania’s gesture, describing the support as a vote of confidence in Nigeria’s maritime leadership and commitment to regional progress.
“A seat for Nigeria on the IMO Council goes beyond national pride. It is a voice for Africa,” the minister declared. “Nigeria’s dynamic ports, expansive coastline and policy direction uniquely position us to represent the continent effectively on the global stage.”
Oyetola outlined the ministry’s ongoing efforts to reform the maritime sector, including initiatives to revive a national shipping line through public-private partnerships and strengthen port infrastructure and maritime safety. He noted that such reforms align with the broader goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to integrate African economies and foster intra-African trade.
“The blue economy holds immense potential for Africa’s economic transformation,” he said. “Partnerships like ours with Tanzania are essential in building a resilient, inclusive and sustainable maritime future for our continent.”
He welcomed the proposed Tanzanian expert delegation and pledged full support for their engagements. The minister also called on Nigerian investors to explore opportunities in Tanzania while inviting Tanzanian businesses to invest in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy ecosystem.
The Tanzanian delegation included Minister Plenipotentiary, Allen Kuzilwa and Minister Counsellor, Philbert Peter. On the Nigerian side, key officials present included the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Olufemi Oloruntola; Director of maritime safety and security, Babatunde Bombata; Director of maritime services, Dr. Mercy Ilori and the senior special adviser to the president on marine and blue economy, Professor Busayo Fakinlede.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of both nations’ commitment to building a robust and collaborative maritime future. As Nigeria and Tanzania forge stronger maritime ties, their partnership is poised to play a pivotal role in unlocking Africa’s vast blue economy potential.
