The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has released a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, confirming that Minister Adegboyega Oyetola has intensified Nigeria’s final diplomatic efforts in London ahead of the November 28, 2025 election into Category C of the IMO Council.
Speaking at a high-level lunch reception held at the IMO headquarters and attended by representatives from more than 150 countries, Oyetola presented Nigeria as a nation whose concrete actions in maritime security, environmental responsibility and blue-economy reforms have strengthened global seaborne trade.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s record, particularly its leadership in improving safety across the Gulf of Guinea forms the basis of its candidature.
Oyetola noted the remarkable transformation of the region from a high-risk zone to a stable maritime corridor, reaffirming that Nigeria has recorded four consecutive years without piracy incidents, supported by International Maritime Bureau data. He credited this progress to regional cooperation and the Deep Blue Project, which have increased security, boosted investor confidence and ensured safer international shipping.
Reassuring IMO member states of Nigeria’s alignment with the Organisation’s long-term objectives, the minister outlined ongoing reforms aimed at modernising ports, expanding sustainable ocean-based industries and safeguarding the marine environment. He stressed that Nigeria seeks Council membership not for prestige but to strengthen partnerships and advance collective maritime priorities.
In calling for support, Oyetola asked member states for their trust, friendship and votes, reiterating Nigeria’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to global maritime safety, security, environmental stewardship and development. He also expressed solidarity with nations recently struck by hurricanes and natural disasters in the Caribbean and the Philippines, reminding delegates that shared compassion is central to maritime cooperation.
s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola; a delegate and Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola during the lunch reception
The minister extended appreciation to delegates, the IMO Secretariat, regional bodies and industry stakeholders for their continued engagement, noting that their presence reflected the unity and shared purpose that define the IMO.
As Nigeria enters the decisive final stage of its campaign, it continues to enjoy significant goodwill across the international maritime community, heightening expectations ahead of next Friday’s vote.