Nigeria has restated commitment to participate actively in global maritime governance following its election into Category C of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The reaffirmation came On Monday in London at an appreciation luncheon hosted by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in honour of delegates who supported the country’s successful return to the Council after 14 years.
Speaking at the event, the minister conveyed the gratitude of the federal government describing the election as a renewed vote of confidence in the nation’s relevance within the international maritime system.
He noted that the victory carries both honour and responsibility, given the Council’s strategic role in shaping global shipping policies.
According to him, the IMO’s core mandate covering maritime safety, environmental protection, decarbonisation, maritime security and the promotion of a sustainable blue economy aligns with the country’s ongoing reforms in the marine and blue economy sector.
These reforms, he explained, include port modernisation, improved flag and port state control, expanded hydrographic services, enhanced seafarer development and strengthened maritime security architecture.
The minister emphasised that safer and greener oceans require collective responsibility, adding that improvements within the nation’s maritime domain have positive implications for global shipping and regional trade.
He further assured delegates that, as a Council member, the country would prioritise capacity-building for developing states, promote technical cooperation and advocate for fair regulatory frameworks that enable all nations to address emerging maritime challenges.
The luncheon also provided an avenue for renewed diplomatic engagement with the IMO leadership, as the minister commended the organisation’s Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, for what he described as professional and consistent stewardship of the global maritime body.
Also extending his congratulations to other elected members across the three categories of the Council, the minister said their collective leadership would be crucial to advancing maritime safety, sustainability and economic growth during the 2026–2027 biennium.
Officials of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy said the gathering underscored the country’s renewed multilateral posture and commitment to constructive global partnerships in the maritime sector.
The event ended on a note of optimism, with assurances of deeper cooperation between the country, the IMO Secretariat and industry stakeholders as the new Council term approaches.
