Nigeria has officially launched its campaign for re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 term.
The campaign was formally flagged off by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, during a diplomatic event held at the IMO Headquarters in London.
The high-profile event, held on the sidelines of the 110th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110), brought together dignitaries from over 120 IMO Member States.
Among the attendees were the IMO Secretary-General, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Permanent Representatives, maritime diplomats, and industry stakeholders.
Minister Oyetola who delivered the keynote address, emphasized Nigeria’s strategic maritime importance and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the IMO’s goals of safe, secure, and sustainable global shipping.
He conveyed greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and formally declared Nigeria’s candidacy for the upcoming IMO Council elections.
“As a responsible maritime nation on the Gulf of Guinea , a critical global shipping route , Nigeria remains firmly committed to advancing the IMO’s mandate,” Oyetola said.
“A vote for Nigeria is a vote for inclusive, balanced decision-making in global maritime governance.”
The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s progress in maritime security, citing the Deep Blue Project , a comprehensive security initiative by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) as a key achievement.
According to Oyetola, the project has helped eliminate piracy incidents in Nigeria’s waters over the past three years, earning international recognition from bodies like the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).
He also detailed Nigeria’s commitment to environmental and regulatory reforms, including the ratification of several IMO conventions and ongoing efforts to adopt additional measures related to emissions, biofouling, and seafarer welfare.
“Nigeria is not just a regional maritime hub we are investing in future-ready talent,” Oyetola said, noting that 60% of Nigeria’s 240 million citizens are under the age of 19.
He added that the country aims to contribute over two million skilled seafarers to the global labour force within the next decade.
On gender inclusivity, Oyetola said Nigeria is advancing initiatives to empower women in maritime careers, promoting equal opportunities across the industry.
NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, also addressed the gathering, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to international maritime collaboration.
“Nigeria remains a steadfast partner in enhancing maritime security and sustainability,” Mobereola stated.
“If re-elected, we will work with Member States to deliver a transformative and inclusive agenda for the global maritime community.”
Nigeria has served multiple terms on the IMO Council and is seeking re-election under Category C, which represents countries with special interests in maritime transport or navigation.
The IMO Council elections will take place during the 2025 IMO Assembly.
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