IMO Secretary-General to visit Nigeria in October, as maritime security gains global attention
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, is set to undertake a three-day working visit to Nigeria from 2 to 4 October 2025, in a move expected to strengthen international collaboration on maritime safety and security.
The announcement was made by the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, during a courtesy call on Thursday by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, at the Agency’s headquarters.
Dr Mobereola commended Rear Admiral Oamen for sustaining what he described as a longstanding and highly productive partnership between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy. He said the relationship has consistently delivered results that have enhanced security in Nigeria’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea.
“The visit of the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command is yet another clear example of the deep and successful partnership between NIMASA and the Nigerian Navy. This collaboration has contributed immensely to maritime safety, which remains vital to the growth of our sector and our economy as a whole,” he said.
He added that the ongoing cooperation, particularly in the fight against piracy and maritime crime, offers a blueprint that could be adopted by other government agencies and regional bodies seeking to improve maritime security.
According to the NIMASA DG, the IMO Secretary-General’s visit will include tours of key Nigerian Navy installations and NIMASA facilities in Lagos. He said the visit demonstrates international recognition of Nigeria’s ongoing investments in maritime security and its commitment to strengthening global maritime relations.
Rear Admiral Oamen, in his response, praised NIMASA’s leadership for sustaining its collaboration with the Navy, describing the synergy as a critical factor in maintaining security and stability across Nigeria’s maritime domain.