President Bola Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium, describing the development as a strong endorsement of the country’s growing influence in global shipping governance.
The election took place on Friday, 28 November, during the IMO General Assembly in London, marking Nigeria’s return to the 20-member Category C council after a 14-year absence.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said the re-election reflects the international community’s confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and adherence to global regulatory standards.
The President commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, staff of the ministry, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for their “dedication, strategic engagement, and professionalism” that secured the victory.
He noted that the new mandate aligns with his administration’s agenda to harness the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy, modernise maritime infrastructure, intensify the fight against piracy, and solidify the nation’s position as West and Central Africa’s leading shipping hub.
President Tinubu also assured the global maritime community that Nigeria stands ready to collaborate in promoting safer seas, cleaner oceans, more efficient shipping systems, and fair, innovative regulation worldwide.
Expressing gratitude to IMO member states for their support, he pledged that Nigeria will repay the confidence placed in it through active leadership and tangible contributions to international maritime goals.
Nigeria’s return to the influential IMO Council is widely regarded as a diplomatic and strategic boost for the country’s maritime sector and its broader economic diversification efforts.
