Nigeria has secured re-election to the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in Category C for the 2026–2027 term, ending a 14-year absence from the 20-member body.
The election took place on Friday, November 28, during the IMO General Assembly in London.
President Bola Tinubu welcomed the development, describing it as recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global shipping.
In a statement shared by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the outcome reflects international confidence in Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and compliance with global regulations.
The President commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, ministry staff, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for their “dedication, strategic engagement, and professionalism” in securing the vote.
He said the re-election aligns with his administration’s goals of expanding the blue economy, modernising maritime infrastructure, combating piracy, and strengthening Nigeria’s position as West and Central Africa’s leading shipping hub.
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Tinubu assured the international maritime community of Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate in promoting safer seas, cleaner oceans, more efficient shipping, and forward-looking regulation worldwide.
He thanked IMO member states for their support and pledged active leadership and tangible contributions to global maritime initiatives.
Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council is being celebrated as a strategic diplomatic win and a boost for the country’s maritime sector and economic diversification efforts.