Nigeria has officially launched its campaign for election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium, in a strategic diplomatic move during the 110th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) held at the IMO Headquarters in London.
The high-level campaign was led by Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, alongside the Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom.
Delivering his keynote address, Minister Oyetola conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to the objectives of the IMO.
“Today, we formally declare Nigeria’s candidacy for re-election to the IMO Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium,” he said. “As a responsible maritime nation strategically located on the Gulf of Guinea — one of the most commercially vital and security-sensitive maritime corridors globally — Nigeria remains firmly aligned with the IMO’s mission to foster safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient and sustainable shipping.”
He drew attention to Nigeria’s flagship maritime security initiative, the Deep Blue Project, which he described as a global model for integrated maritime safety operations. Coordinated by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the project combines aerial, terrestrial, and naval assets to secure Nigeria’s waters.
According to the Minister, the initiative has been instrumental in achieving zero piracy incidents within Nigeria’s territorial waters over the past three years. This development has earned the country international recognition, including commendation from the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).
Minister Oyetola also underscored Nigeria’s investments in maritime education and human capital, stating that the country has the potential to contribute more than two million skilled seafarers to the global workforce within the next decade.
“A vote for Nigeria is a vote for inclusive representation, constructive collaboration, and fair decision-making in international maritime governance,” he declared. “We are prepared to work closely with all Member States in shaping a maritime future that is safer, greener, and more inclusive.”
Supporting the Minister’s remarks, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, reinforced Nigeria’s position as a dependable contributor to global maritime efforts.
“Nigeria is proud to remain a trusted international partner in enhancing maritime security, advancing environmental stewardship, and ensuring equal participation in global shipping governance,” he said.
The campaign event attracted a distinguished audience, including the Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr Arsenio Dominguez, Permanent Representatives, Alternate Permanent Representatives, diplomats, and maritime delegates from more than 170 IMO Member States.
The elections are scheduled to take place in November or December 2025, with all 176 member states eligible to cast their votes.