Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to active global maritime engagement after its election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council at an appreciation lunch for IMO delegates in London.
The lunch hosted by Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola was an occasion to thank diplomats, dignitaries, and representatives of member states reiterating Nigeria’s readiness to deepen international maritime cooperation and shared progress.
Speaking, Dr. Oyetola expressed gratitude on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, noting that the election reflects international confidence in Nigeria’s constructive role in global maritime governance.
Describing the election as both a privilege and a responsibility, Dr. Oyetola stressed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing the IMO’s core mandates, including maritime safety, decarbonisation, marine environmental protection, maritime security, and the development of a sustainable blue economy.
Highlighting ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector, he noted efforts to modernise ports, enhance flag and port state administration, improve hydrographic and seafarer capabilities, and expand critical maritime infrastructure.
“A safer, greener, and more efficient maritime environment is a shared global responsibility,” he said, adding that Nigeria’s reforms positively influence international shipping and coastal nations alike.
Dr. Oyetola reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism, transparency, and equitable maritime development, promising to advocate for capacity-building in developing nations, promote technical cooperation, and ensure a level playing field for all states during its 2026–2027 term on the Council.
The Minister commended IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez and all elected Council members for their professionalism and partnership, pledging forward-looking, inclusive, and solution-driven contributions from Nigeria.
In a related development, SIFAX Group has congratulated the Minister on Nigeria’s successful election into the Council of the International Maritime Organisation after 14 years of absence.
In an official congratulatory letter, the Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr Taiwo Afolabi, described the development as a historic national milestone and a triumph for the entire maritime industry while emphasising that Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council represents far more than a diplomatic success.
In his words, “Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council is not only a victory for the government but also a triumph for the entire maritime industry and our nation’s standing in global shipping governance.”
Afolabi further credited the Minister’s leadership at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy for renewed global confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
According to him, “This historic achievement is a glaring proof of your visionary leadership, tireless diplomacy, and steadfast dedication to repositioning Nigeria as a respected and influential maritime nation. Your stewardship at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has clearly inspired renewed international confidence in Nigeria’s maritime administration, safety standards, and blue economy aspirations.”
Speaking on the implications for private sector participation and industry growth, Afolabi noted that SIFAX Group is deeply encouraged by the achievement, as it reinforces the company’s confidence in the Federal Government’s reform-driven agenda for growth, competitiveness and sustainable maritime development.
Afolabi concluded by reaffirming the Group’s dedication to national progress through the maritime sector and assured the Minister of the Group’s ongoing support as he guides Nigeria towards greater relevance and influence in international maritime affairs.