Nigeria has stepped up its efforts to secure a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, launched a high-level diplomatic campaign in London to garner international support. The campaign, described as a “door-to-door” strategy, was officially flagged off at the IMO Headquarters on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
Oyetola’s mission is to win Nigeria a seat in Category C of the IMO Council, which is reserved for countries with special interests in maritime transport or those whose election ensures regional balance in international maritime decision-making. The minister arrived in London earlier in the week and has since been engaging in a series of bilateral meetings with key maritime nations.
Among the countries Oyetola has met with are Greece, Spain, Oman, Bangladesh, Namibia, Mexico, and Italy. These meetings are part of a week-long lobbying effort that coincides with the 134th Session of the IMO Council. Speaking to delegates on the sidelines of the session, Oyetola said Nigeria’s bid is not just about representation but also about bringing valuable leadership and collaboration to the global maritime sector.
“Nigeria is not just seeking a seat; we are offering partnership, commitment, and leadership. We come to the IMO table with a strong track record in maritime security, a vast coastline brimming with potential, and a renewed national agenda anchored on collaboration and sustainability,” he said.
Backed by a personal message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the minister’s campaign carries the full weight of the Nigerian government’s commitment to strengthening its global maritime footprint. A major pillar of Nigeria’s bid is its recent success in maritime security, particularly the elimination of piracy in Nigerian waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea region.
“For three consecutive years, Nigeria has recorded zero incidents of piracy in its waters,” Oyetola noted. “Security is the bedrock of maritime prosperity. Our success in this regard demonstrates what is possible when nations take bold, coordinated action.”
He also used the campaign to push for stronger global maritime cooperation, saying Nigeria is prepared to work closely with IMO Member States on areas such as shipbuilding, port modernization, green shipping technologies, and intra-African trade.
“Nigeria is ready to work with IMO Member States to strengthen the pillars of global maritime growth. Our goal is to build enduring bridges of cooperation that will outlast election cycles and deliver impact for future generations,” he said.
This campaign follows earlier efforts made by Oyetola during the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference held in Nice, France. At that event, he met with leaders from several island nations to further discuss Nigeria’s ambitions within the IMO.
Category C of the IMO Council plays a crucial role in ensuring that diverse interests are represented in shaping global maritime laws and standards. Winning a seat would allow Nigeria to contribute more directly to decisions on international shipping, safety, and environmental regulations, while also amplifying Africa’s voice on the global maritime stage.
Oyetola also emphasised Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to the core values of the IMO. “We are committed to upholding IMO’s values of safety, security, and environmental responsibility. A vote for Nigeria is a vote for a more inclusive, cooperative and resilient global maritime future,” he said.
Nigeria’s renewed push comes at a time when global maritime challenges—from climate change to international trade disruptions—require greater cooperation among nations. With this campaign, the country aims to position itself as a reliable partner and leader in the maritime industry, not just in Africa, but around the world.
