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The Federal Government is targeting deeper global ties following its election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.
To this end, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, hosted an appreciation lunch for IMO delegates in London where he emphasised that the country’s return to the IMO Council reflects a renewed vote of confidence in Nigeria’s role within the international maritime system.
According to him, the support Nigeria received during the election reaffirmed global belief in the nation’s constructive engagement and its commitment to contributing effectively to the organisation’s mission.
He described the election as both a privilege and a weighty responsibility, noting that Nigeria understands the gravity of serving on a Council that shapes critical global maritime policies.
He highlighted that the IMO’s mandate extends to improving international maritime safety, driving decarbonisation, protecting the marine environment, enhancing maritime security, and building a sustainable blue economy.
He said Nigeria is fully committed to justifying the trust placed in it through purposeful leadership and meaningful collaboration.
Oyetola outlined the reforms currently underway in Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector under President Tinubu’s guidance. These reforms aim to strengthen maritime safety and security, modernise ports, enhance flag and port state administration, advance hydrographic capabilities, improve seafarer development, and expand critical maritime infrastructure.
He emphasised that safeguarding a safer, greener, and more efficient maritime environment is a shared global responsibility, noting that improvements in Nigeria’s maritime domain positively influence international shipping and coastal nations alike.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism, he said the country will continue championing the values that underpin IMO cooperation: transparency, regulatory stability, and equitable global maritime development.
As a Council member, Nigeria intends to intensify advocacy for capacity building for developing nations, expand avenues for technical cooperation, and promote a level playing field that enables all states to confront emerging maritime challenges effectively.
The Minister assured delegates that Nigeria’s contributions within the Council will remain forward-looking, inclusive, and solution-driven. He pledged closer cooperation with member states, the IMO Secretariat, and industry stakeholders to improve global maritime safety, sustainability, and economic growth.
He said the confidence shown by the international community strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to deliver measurable, beneficial outcomes throughout the 2026–2027 biennium.
Oyetola commended the Secretary-General of IMO, Mr Arsenio Dominguez, and his team for their professionalism and steadfast commitment to maritime development. He also congratulated all elected Council members across the three categories, acknowledging the collective importance of their roles in guiding the work of the organisation.
The event closed on a note of warmth and optimism as the Minister thanked all delegates for their support, partnership, and presence, urging them to enjoy Nigeria’s hospitality. He reaffirmed that Nigeria looks forward to deepened cooperation and shared progress during its term on the IMO Council.
