Nigeria is embarking on a robust diplomatic campaign to secure a coveted seat in Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council. Spearheaded by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the campaign involves extensive bilateral engagements with representatives of influential maritime nations at the IMO headquarters in London and other international forums. The minister has framed Nigeria’s bid not merely as a quest for a seat but as an offer of partnership, leadership, and a commitment to strengthening the global maritime sector. This proactive approach emphasizes collaboration, sustainability, and Nigeria’s track record in addressing critical maritime challenges, particularly in the area of security. The campaign also leverages President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement, signifying a united national front in pursuit of this strategic objective.
Nigeria’s value proposition rests on several key pillars. First and foremost is its demonstrated success in combating maritime insecurity, a critical concern for the global shipping industry. The country has achieved a remarkable three-year streak of zero piracy incidents in its territorial waters, attributed to the implementation of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security architecture. This success story serves as a compelling example of effective national action and regional cooperation within the Gulf of Guinea, a region previously plagued by piracy. Nigeria aims to share its expertise and collaborate with other nations to enhance maritime security worldwide.
Beyond security, Nigeria’s campaign highlights its vast maritime potential and its commitment to fostering sustainable growth within the blue economy. The country boasts an extensive coastline and abundant maritime resources, presenting significant opportunities for investment and development. Nigeria aims to partner with other IMO member states to unlock this potential and promote responsible and sustainable practices in the maritime sector. The campaign also underscores Nigeria’s focus on driving intra-African trade, leveraging its strategic location and maritime infrastructure to facilitate economic growth and connectivity within the continent.
The minister’s “door-to-door diplomacy” has taken him to numerous countries, including Greece, Spain, Oman, Bangladesh, Namibia, Mexico, and Italy, reflecting the global scope of Nigeria’s outreach. These high-level discussions aim to build strategic alliances and garner support for Nigeria’s candidacy. The campaign builds upon earlier efforts, such as engagements at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France, where Oyetola sought backing from various island nations. This sustained and multifaceted approach underscores the importance Nigeria places on securing a seat on the IMO Council.
Nigeria’s pursuit of a Category C seat is driven by the desire to amplify Africa’s voice in international maritime affairs. Category C is specifically designed to ensure geographic diversity in the IMO Council, giving a voice to countries with significant maritime interests. Nigeria’s election would provide a platform to champion the concerns and priorities of African nations, contributing to a more inclusive and representative global maritime governance structure. This enhanced representation would allow Nigeria to actively shape international maritime policies, promoting sustainable practices and fostering a secure and prosperous maritime environment for all.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s campaign for the IMO Council seat is about more than just gaining a seat at the table; it’s about shaping the future of the maritime world. The campaign emphasizes partnership, collaboration, and a commitment to upholding the IMO’s core values of safety, security, and environmental responsibility. Nigeria’s bid is presented as an investment in a more inclusive, cooperative, and resilient global maritime future, benefitting all stakeholders. A vote for Nigeria, the campaign argues, is a vote for a stronger and more sustainable maritime sector, with Africa playing a more prominent role in shaping its trajectory.
