Oyetola Launches Nigeria’s Campaign for IMO Council Re-election in London

Nigeria has officially launched its bid for re-election into the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium. The campaign flag-off was led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, during the 110th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) at the IMO Headquarters in London.

Oyetola, joined by the acting Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, used the platform to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental sustainability, and global cooperation. He highlighted the nation’s strategic location along the Gulf of Guinea and the success of the Deep Blue Project in eliminating piracy in Nigerian waters over the past three years.

The minister also outlined Nigeria’s contributions to maritime education and global workforce development, pledging up to two million skilled seafarers in the next decade. He called on IMO member states to support Nigeria’s candidacy, promising continued collaboration in shaping a secure and inclusive maritime sector.

Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, also spoke at the event, stressing Nigeria’s dedication to equitable and responsible participation in international maritime affairs.

The event was attended by the IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, and maritime representatives from over 170 member states. The elections are set to take place in November or December 2025.