Nigeria has been elected one of the Vice-Presidents of the 2026 Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), strengthening the country’s role in global governance of the international seabed and its resources.
The election, which took place during the 31st Session (Part II) of the ISA Council and Assembly in Kingston, Jamaica, saw Nigeria unanimously endorsed by the African Group to serve on the Assembly’s Bureau.
The position is being occupied by the Head of Nigeria’s delegation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Fatimah Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, for the current session.
Addressing the Assembly, Mahmood reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to working with the ISA and other member states to promote sustainable, equitable and responsible management of the deep seabed.
She said science, equity and precaution must remain the foundation of decisions concerning the administration and management of the seabed and ocean floor beyond national jurisdiction.
According to her, “the Area,” which is recognised under international law as the common heritage of humankind, must be responsibly managed for the benefit of all humanity while protecting its ecological integrity for present and future generations.
Mahmood also called for inclusive, transparent and science-based decision-making within the Authority, stressing the need to ensure that the interests of developing countries, particularly African states, are adequately reflected in the governance of the international seabed.
Nigeria’s election, the Federal Ministry said, represents recognition of the country’s active participation in international maritime governance and provides an opportunity for it to contribute to shaping global policies on the sustainable management of deep-seabed resources.
The development also aligns with the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s influence in global maritime affairs and unlock sustainable opportunities in the marine and blue economy.
The ISA Council and Assembly sessions were held in Kingston from July 13 to 24 and July 27 to 31, 2026, respectively.
The Nigerian delegation comprised officials of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Federal Ministry of Justice, Nigerian Mission in Jamaica, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Hydrographic Agency and the Nigerian Navy.
The July meeting followed the first part of the 31st Council session held in Kingston in March, where member states considered several issues concerning the governance of the international seabed Area, including draft regulations for the exploitation of mineral resources, otherwise known as the Mining Code.
The latest session continued deliberations on outstanding matters before the Assembly met to consider issues relating to the Authority’s mandate and governance.
