Nigeria’s pursuit of a Category ‘C’ seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026/2027 biennium has received a significant boost with an endorsement from the Swiss government. This endorsement, conveyed via a letter of support presented to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, by the Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Felix Egloff, underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and recognition within the global maritime community. The minister welcomed the endorsement, highlighting it as a testament to the Nigerian government’s commitment to upholding international maritime standards and contributing to a more robust and sustainable global maritime sector. This development injects further momentum into Nigeria’s campaign ahead of the IMO Council elections scheduled for October/November 2025.
Nigeria’s bid for the IMO Council seat is underpinned by its substantial maritime resources and potential. The country boasts a vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spanning 200 nautical miles, further extended by 16,300 kilometers to the Continental Shelf. This extensive maritime domain positions Nigeria as a naturally significant maritime player, with immense potential for economic growth and development. Minister Oyetola emphasized the importance of leveraging this potential, advocating for Nigeria’s rightful recognition as a leading maritime nation. He further underscored the government’s commitment to developing the sector through strategic partnerships and investments, aimed at unlocking the vast opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy.
The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international partners such as the World Bank, the African Union Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the Kingdom of Norway, and other stakeholders, has developed a comprehensive National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy. This policy framework is designed to provide a long-term, sustainable approach to managing and developing Nigeria’s maritime resources. This strategic approach reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the responsible and sustainable exploitation of its maritime assets for the benefit of present and future generations. The policy aims to create a thriving blue economy that contributes significantly to national economic growth and diversification.
A key element of the government’s strategy for developing the maritime sector is the adoption of a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This approach aims to leverage private sector expertise and investment while maintaining government oversight and ensuring alignment with national development goals. The government envisions holding a token equity in these partnerships, allowing for private sector-led growth while retaining a strategic interest in the sector’s development. This PPP model is expected to accelerate investments in critical areas such as inland waterways development, port infrastructure upgrades, and maritime security enhancements.
Investment in Nigeria’s inland waterways is a key priority for the ministry. This includes initiatives such as the supply of modern boats, dredging activities to enhance navigability, and the implementation of advanced navigation systems. These efforts are aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of inland water transportation, promoting trade and connectivity within the country, and unlocking the economic potential of Nigeria’s vast river networks. Furthermore, the government recognizes the importance of maritime security in fostering a conducive environment for investment and sustainable development in the blue economy.
The Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative, has played a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and combating piracy. The project involves the deployment of advanced surveillance technology, patrol vessels, and trained personnel to monitor and protect Nigeria’s maritime domain. The success of the Deep Blue Project is evident in the significant reduction in piracy incidents in Nigerian waters over the past three years. The government aims to sustain these achievements and extend its security efforts to the wider Gulf of Guinea region through collaborative partnerships with neighboring countries. This regional approach to maritime security is crucial for protecting vital shipping lanes and promoting stability in the region.
The Swiss government’s endorsement of Nigeria’s candidacy for the IMO Council seat signifies international recognition of the country’s commitment to maritime safety, security, and sustainable development. This support strengthens Nigeria’s position in the upcoming elections and reflects the growing confidence in the country’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the global maritime community. Minister Oyetola expressed gratitude for the Swiss government’s support, emphasizing its significance as a validation of Nigeria’s efforts in upholding international maritime standards. This endorsement further reinforces Nigeria’s determination to play a more prominent role in shaping the future of the global maritime industry.
