Nigeria Rallies Global Backing for IMO Council Seat
Nigeria has intensified its diplomatic push for election into the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council Category C, urging member states to support its bid and reaffirming its role as a strategic maritime hub for Central and West Africa.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, appealed in New York during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, according to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola.
Oyetola said Nigeria’s candidacy represents not just ambition but a pledge of partnership with the international community. He highlighted Nigeria’s maritime security reforms, particularly the Deep Blue Project under NIMASA, which integrated air, land, and sea assets to curb piracy.
“Our three consecutive years of zero piracy incidents have restored confidence among global shipping stakeholders and affirmed Nigeria’s role as guarantor of maritime safety,” he said.
He noted that Nigerian ports remain critical trade gateways for West and Central Africa, with the country’s shipping industry ranking among the largest in sub-Saharan Africa.
The minister explained that Nigeria’s campaign rests on reciprocity and solidarity, anchored on bilateral and multilateral cooperation and the sharing of technical expertise with other developing states, particularly in Africa.
He pledged Nigeria’s commitment to driving inclusivity, responsible leadership, and collaborative progress within the IMO, while underscoring ongoing institutional reforms aimed at positioning the nation as a maritime powerhouse.
Oyetola also pointed to Nigeria’s ratification of key IMO conventions, its ongoing accession to others, and its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 on the conservation of oceans and marine resources. He added that Nigeria had signed the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) and commenced its ratification process.
“Nigeria envisions an IMO that is inclusive, representative, and forward-looking. We remain a regional maritime leader and a dependable global partner,” he declared, urging member states to back Nigeria’s Council bid.
