Nigeria’s Maritime Ambitions Receive Boost, As IMO Chief Endorses Council Bid

Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria — October 6, 2025: Nigeria’s bid for a seat on the Category C of the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, Council has received a significant endorsement from the IMO Secretary General, His Excellency Arsenio Dominguez, who expressed confidence in the country’s ability to reclaim its position in the upcoming November elections.

Speaking at a grand dinner held in his honor at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Dominguez praised Nigeria’s strides in maritime safety and development. The dinner marked the conclusion of his two-day official visit to the country.

“You have done it before, you can do it again,” Dominguez said, referring to Nigeria’s previous tenure on the IMO Council. He commended the nation’s achievement of three consecutive years of zero piracy in its waters and the Gulf of Guinea, calling for continued efforts to sustain the progress.

The Secretary General also lauded Nigeria’s investment in maritime education, citing the establishment of a maritime institute at the University of Lagos and the advancements at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its marine and blue economy potential. He described the Category C seat as a strategic platform to elevate Nigeria’s influence within the IMO and ultimately aim for a Category B position.

“Nigeria remains a proud member of the IMO and is determined to enhance the maritime industry in the region through safety, security, and capacity development,” Oyetola stated.

Senator Wasiu Sanni, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, echoed the optimism, highlighting the zero piracy record as a testament to the government’s dedication to maritime security. He emphasized that Nigeria’s presence on the IMO Council would further bolster its regional leadership.

Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Moboraola, noted that the country’s shipping industry has seen remarkable improvements, not only in the Gulf of Guinea but across its maritime domain. He praised Dominguez’s focus on energy transition, biofuels, and seafarer training, aligning with Nigeria’s vision to shift from oil dependency to a thriving blue economy.

The evening also showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and dance performances adding vibrancy to the diplomatic occasion.