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Oyetola Leads Nigeria’s Strategic Bid for IMO Council Seat, Aiming for Global Maritime Influence
Leading this ambitious push is the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola (CON), whose vision is to position Nigeria as a dominant force in global shipping and maritime governance.
The IMO, a specialized United Nations agency responsible for regulating international shipping, holds its Council elections later this year. Category C is specifically reserved for nations with significant interests in maritime transport and trade, providing them with a platform to contribute to shaping global maritime policies. For Nigeria, securing a seat is not just a diplomatic pursuit it represents a strategic leap forward for economic growth, regional leadership, and maritime security.
At the heart of this campaign is Nigeria’s intention to amplify its voice in international maritime decisions. Membership in the IMO Council would afford the country a pivotal role in the formulation of regulations and policies that affect shipping, safety, environmental protection, and trade. This influence would allow Nigeria to safeguard both its national interests and those of the broader West African sub region.
Economic prospects tied to the blue economy form another cornerstone of Nigeria’s bid. With a coastline stretching over 850 kilometers and a maritime domain rich in resources, Nigeria is aggressively advancing its blue economy agenda. A seat at the IMO table is expected to draw foreign investment, stimulate port infrastructure development, and enhance trade efficiency all in line with President Bola Tinubu’s broader strategy for economic diversification.
Maritime security is also high on the agenda. Nigeria, which has made considerable strides in curbing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, sees IMO Council membership as a means of deepening international collaboration, adopting global best practices, and enhancing safety standards along its waterways.
The campaign also underscores Nigeria’s commitment to human capital development. By aligning more closely with the IMO, Nigeria aims to provide its maritime professionals especially young people with increased access to global training programs and capacity building initiatives. This would help nurture a new generation of skilled seafarers, engineers, and administrators capable of competing on the world stage.
Nigeria’s regional leadership is also in focus. As Africa’s largest economy, the country seeks to use its potential IMO seat to drive greater cooperation among African maritime nations, promote sustainable development, and project a unified continental voice in international maritime diplomacy.
In addition, Nigeria anticipates increased access to technical support and maritime innovation through IMO engagement. This includes advancements in shipping technology, logistics modernization, and enhanced port management critical components for a thriving maritime industry.
Oyetola’s Vision and Commitment
Oyetola, since his appointment, has consistently emphasized the need for Nigeria to embrace its maritime identity and assert its global relevance. His advocacy for Category C membership has been described by stakeholders as a bold and necessary step in unlocking the full potential of the sector.
“Nigeria must take its rightful place on the global maritime stage. Our waters, our people, and our potential deserve nothing less,” Oyetola affirmed during a recent stakeholders’ engagement on the bid.
As the IMO elections approach, there is growing optimism that Nigeria’s strategic location, extensive maritime assets, and clear policy direction will earn it a seat at one of the most influential tables in global shipping. The journey to Category C may be competitive, but with strong leadership at the helm, Nigeria is navigating with purpose and promise.
Jamiu Omookose
