IMO Secretary-General Hails Nigeria’s Commitment to Maritime Safety and Leadership


The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, has commended Nigeria for its remarkable achievements in maritime safety, security, and environmental protection through the effective implementation of IMO instruments.

In a letter dated October 9, 2025, and addressed to the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Mr. Dominguez praised the Agency’s ongoing efforts—especially the Deep Blue Project, which he described as a “major success” in reducing piracy within Nigeria’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea.

 “I was particularly pleased to see first-hand the important work being undertaken by NIMASA to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime administration and to advance the effective implementation of IMO instruments,”
Mr. Dominguez wrote.


He noted that NIMASA’s dedication to improving maritime safety, security, and environmental standards reflects Nigeria’s strong alignment with international best practices. According to him, the Deep Blue Project has significantly enhanced maritime domain awareness and contributed to a safer regional maritime environment.

Mr. Dominguez encouraged NIMASA to maintain its momentum and ensure the long-term sustainability of the project, noting that it could serve as a model for regional maritime security frameworks across West and Central Africa.

Beyond security, the IMO Secretary-General also commended Nigeria’s active participation in IMO-led programmes focused on technical cooperation, capacity building, decarbonization, digitalization, and seafarer training.

 “These efforts are instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong example of maritime leadership and an active contributor to the work of the IMO,”
he stated.



Mr. Dominguez further expressed optimism about continued collaboration between the IMO and NIMASA in advancing a safe, secure, and sustainable maritime industry.

He also extended special commendations to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for his visionary leadership and commitment to developing Nigeria’s blue economy.

According to the IMO chief, Nigeria continues to demonstrate maritime leadership within the international community through active engagement, progressive policies, and meaningful contributions to global maritime governance.

He highlighted key national achievements, including progress in maritime education—such as the ongoing construction of the new building for maritime studies at the University of Lagos—and Nigeria’s growing commitment to greener shipping initiatives.

 “Your leadership in promoting collaboration on decarbonization and the transition to greener shipping is commendable and greatly appreciated,”
Mr. Dominguez added.



With sustained partnership between Nigeria and the IMO, the outlook for maritime governance in the Gulf of Guinea and the wider region remains highly promising.

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