IMO Elections 2025: Nigeria Launches Re-election Campaign in London



 In a strategic diplomatic move, Nigeria has officially launched its campaign for re-election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium. The high-level flag-off ceremony took place at the IMO Headquarters in London, on the sidelines of the 110th Session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110).

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, led Nigeria’s delegation, joined by the Acting High Commissioner of Nigeria to the United Kingdom.

Delivering a keynote address, Minister Oyetola conveyed warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the IMO’s mission.

“Today, we formally declare Nigeria’s candidacy for re-election to the IMO Council under Category C for the 2026–2027 biennium,” said Oyetola. “As a responsible maritime nation strategically located on the Gulf of Guinea — one of the most commercially significant and security-sensitive shipping routes in the world — Nigeria remains resolute in supporting the IMO’s mandate.”

He spotlighted the success of the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive maritime security initiative spearheaded by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The project integrates air, land, and sea assets to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime domain.

“The implementation of the Deep Blue Project has resulted in zero piracy incidents in Nigeria’s territorial waters over the past three years,” he noted — an achievement acknowledged by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).


 The Minister also emphasized Nigeria’s increasing investment in maritime education and human capital development, citing plans to contribute over two million skilled seafarers to the global workforce in the coming decade.

“A vote for Nigeria is a vote for representation, collaboration, and balanced decision-making in global maritime governance,” he stressed. “We stand ready to work with all Member States to build a safer, greener, and more inclusive maritime future.”

Echoing this commitment, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of NIMASA, underscored Nigeria’s active role in international maritime cooperation.

“Nigeria is proud to be a committed and reliable global partner in advancing maritime security, promoting environmental responsibility, and ensuring fair and equitable participation in the governance of international shipping.”

The campaign launch drew an impressive international audience, including IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, as well as diplomats, Permanent Representatives, and maritime delegates from over 170 IMO Member States.

With 176 Member States expected to cast their votes in the elections scheduled for November/December 2025, Nigeria’s campaign signals the beginning of a proactive and strategic engagement with the global maritime community.


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