Nigeria has been re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), returning to the global maritime body’s leadership after a 14-year absence.
The development was announced on Saturday by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said Nigeria secured a seat in Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium. The election took place during the organisation’s General Assembly in London on Friday, November 28.
President Tinubu welcomed the re-election, describing it as a strong affirmation of Nigeria’s expanding maritime influence and its constructive role in global shipping governance. He said the outcome reflects the international community’s confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, security, environmental responsibility, and adherence to global rules and standards.
The President commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, officials of the ministry, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for their strategic engagement and professionalism throughout the campaign.
Tinubu noted that the new IMO Council mandate aligns with his administration’s efforts to unlock the potential of Nigeria’s blue economy, improve maritime infrastructure, enhance anti-piracy operations, and elevate the nation’s status as a regional shipping hub.
He assured the global maritime community of Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate in advancing safer seas, cleaner oceans, and more efficient maritime transport systems, while championing cooperation, innovation, and fairness in global maritime regulation.
