MON NOV 24 2025-theGBJournal| Nigerian officials are in a frenetic race to win more support ahead of crucial election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, driving the diplomatic effort to see Nigeria elected, over the weekend delivered a persuasive appeal to delegates from around the globe at a well-attended lunch reception at the IMO headquarters in London.
The appeal, to delegates from over 150 countries, forms pillar of Nigeria’s last outreach efforts before the Council election scheduled for Friday, 28 November 2025.
Oyetola noted in his address that ”Nigeria is not just a contender but a country whose actions in maritime security, environmental responsibility and Blue Economy reforms have directly advanced seaborne trade.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s candidature rest on tangible achievements rather than promises, noting that country has demonstrated consistent leadership in improving safety across the Gulf of Guinea.
Dr. Oyetola highlighted the transformation of the region from a high-risk zone to a maritime corridor experiencing unprecedented stability, while pointing to Nigeria’s record zero piracy incidents within its waters over the past four years, and citing data from International Maritime Bureau.
He said regional cooperation and Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project have played decisive roles in curbing maritime crime, thereby safeguarding international shipping and reinforcing confidence among seafarers, insures, and investors.
The Ministers assured IMO member states that Nigeria’s policies remain firmly aligned with the Organization’s long-term priorities.
Through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, he explained, Nigeria is deepening reforms aimed at improving port efficiency, promoting sustainable ocean-based industries, and protecting its maritime environment.
He equally noted that the country’s bid for Council membership seeks to strengthen partnerships rather than prestige, emphasizing shared responsibility in preserving global maritime order.
The Minister invited countries to lend Nigeria their ”trust, friendship, and votes,” stressing that the nation stands ready to contribute constructively to the Council’s work across safety, security, environmental stewardship and maritime development.
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