President Bola Tinubu has applauded Nigeria’s re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term, describing the achievement as proof of the nation’s expanding influence in global maritime affairs.
Nigeria secured a seat in Category C during the IMO General Assembly held in London on Friday, November 28, marking the country’s comeback to the organisation’s governing council after more than a decade away.
In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the victory demonstrates the global community’s trust in Nigeria’s dedication to maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and adherence to international maritime standards.
Tinubu extended commendation to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the ministry’s personnel, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and the country’s diplomatic team for the professionalism and strategy that guided the campaign.
Speaking on the significance of the win, Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s renewed mandate aligns with his administration’s efforts to unlock opportunities within the blue economy, improve port and shipping infrastructure, enhance anti-piracy operations, and reinforce the nation’s role as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with global partners to promote safer seas, cleaner oceans, more efficient maritime transport, and fair, innovative maritime regulations.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to member states for their votes of confidence, assuring them that Nigeria would make meaningful contributions to advancing global maritime priorities.
With this election, Nigeria joins 19 other nations in Category C—reserved for countries with special interests in maritime transportation—which further consolidates the country’s status as an emerging naval and shipping power.
Minister Oyetola hailed the victory as “a major endorsement of the renewed trust the world places in Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” He noted that the success followed over a year of intensive diplomatic outreach.
“We have regained global confidence. Our next task is to deepen reforms, strengthen our maritime institutions, and ensure Nigeria occupies its rightful position as a leading maritime nation,” he said.
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