Nigeria has intensified its diplomatic and technical engagements as it seeks election into the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, highlighting its four-year zero-piracy record and sweeping blue-economy reforms as compelling credentials for its return to the global maritime decision-making body.
In the build-up to next week’s crucial vote in London, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has led a high-level campaign targeted at over 150 IMO member delegations.
On Thursday, the minister hosted a strategic diplomatic luncheon at the IMO headquarters, where he delivered a detailed argument for Nigeria’s return to Category C—one of the most competitive segments of the Council.
Nigeria’s Bid for IMO Council Seat Anchored on Zero-Piracy Record and Blue-Economy Reforms
Addressing ambassadors, maritime administrators, and technical policy leaders, Oyetola said the IMO council seat aspiration is not based on symbolism or prestige but on Nigeria’s measurable contributions to global maritime safety, sustainable shipping, and economic stability.
According to him, Nigeria has undergone one of the most significant maritime security transformations globally, turning the once volatile Gulf of Guinea into a stable and increasingly prosperous maritime corridor.
“Nigeria is not just another contender for the IMO council seat,” he said. “We are a nation whose operational interventions, security architecture, and governance reforms continue to deliver results that benefit international seaborne trade.”
He cited the International Maritime Bureau’s recent data affirming that Nigeria has maintained a zero-piracy record in its territorial waters for four consecutive years—a milestone he said clearly demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to international best practices.
Oyetola attributed the achievement to strengthened regional partnerships, improved maritime domain awareness, and sustained investments in maritime security, particularly under the Deep Blue Project.
The initiative, launched to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and maritime vandalism, has been central to the country’s protection of crew members, cargo, and shipping routes.
The minister noted that the Deep Blue Project’s aerial, land, and maritime assets have significantly restored confidence among shipping operators—resulting in lower insurance premiums, increased port calls, and renewed investor interest in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Nigeria Pushes Global Alignment on Blue-Economy Priorities
Continuing his pitch for Nigeria’s IMO council seat, Oyetola emphasised the country’s alignment with the IMO’s long-term objectives such as decarbonisation, port efficiency, ecological protection, and the development of sustainable ocean industries.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Ministry is implementing reforms that promote cleaner oceans, responsible exploitation of marine resources, enhanced port digitalisation, and improved cargo evacuation systems.
According to him, these reforms underscore Nigeria’s readiness to contribute constructively to global maritime governance.
Oyetola further stressed that Nigeria is committed to strengthening partnerships rather than seeking prominence.
“Our bid is anchored on collaboration, shared values, and shared vision,” he said, while urging member states to “grant Nigeria their trust, friendship, and votes.”
He also thanked countries that have expressed support for Nigeria’s candidacy or acknowledged its security strides, describing their gestures as “an affirmation of Nigeria’s renewed sense of responsibility to the global maritime community.”
Solidarity With Disaster-Affected Nations
During the high-level engagement, Oyetola also extended Nigeria’s solidarity to nations recently hit by hurricanes and severe weather incidents, particularly in the Caribbean and the Philippines.
He said the global maritime industry must approach climate-related challenges with unity and compassion, noting that the seas bind all nations together.
“The seas unite us far more than they divide us,” he told the delegates, adding that the IMO must continue to foster inclusive policies that protect vulnerable states facing the brunt of maritime climate disasters.
Global Support Growing as Nigeria Strengthens Diplomacy
Nigeria’s intensified lobbying has reportedly gained traction within the international maritime community.
Many IMO members have commended Nigeria’s decisive action against piracy and its ongoing blue-economy reforms, which they say have significantly improved safety in the Gulf of Guinea—one of the world’s most important shipping arteries.
Maritime analysts note that Nigeria’s improved security profile has already produced tangible benefits, including:
• declining war-risk insurance premiums;
• increased foreign participation in shipping activities;
• improved cargo throughput in Nigerian ports;
• strengthened regional maritime cooperation; and
• rising investor confidence in the country’s maritime assets.
The analysts argue that a seat on the IMO Council would further encourage Nigeria to expand these gains and help shape international maritime regulations that better reflect the realities of African coastal states.
Nigeria Eyes Return to Council Ahead of November 28 Vote
Expectations are rising ahead of the Friday, 28 November council election, where Nigeria hopes to reclaim its influence in global maritime administration after years of comprehensive sector reforms.
The IMO council seat campaign is one of the most significant diplomatic moves by the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry since its creation.
If elected, Nigeria plans to prioritise maritime security, digital transformation of Africa’s maritime sectors, global ocean health, seafarers’ welfare, and policies that encourage fair shipping practices for developing nations.
With its compelling zero-piracy record, renewed diplomatic engagement, and growing continental support, Nigeria is positioning itself as a credible and capable partner in shaping the next phase of global maritime governance.
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