By Abbas Nazil
Nigeria has renewed its diplomatic push to regain a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, engaging the global maritime community during a high-level symposium held in Singapore on July 14, 2025.
The country last secured the Category C seat in 2009 and is now ramping up efforts ahead of the elections slated for later this year.
At the event titled “Job Creation and Economic Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime and Aviation Sectors,” Nigeria presented a compelling case for international support, showcasing its vast maritime potential and blue economy investment opportunities.
Representing the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, articulated the strategic importance of Nigeria’s maritime sector and the value of its return to the IMO Council.
Oyebamiji emphasized that Nigeria’s bid is not just about regaining a seat, but about securing a voice in shaping global maritime policy, especially for the West African sub-region.
He noted that the council position would allow Nigeria to meaningfully contribute to global maritime governance and foster policies that promote sustainability, security, and inclusive growth in international shipping.
“The IMO seat will empower Nigeria to influence the global maritime ecosystem and position the country as a major stakeholder in shaping international maritime policies,” Oyebamiji said, adding that the move aligns with the government’s broader ambition to transform the country into a maritime and logistics hub for Africa.
During the presentation, NIWA spotlighted the significant potential of Nigeria’s coastal waters, describing them as an “untapped goldmine” capable of driving job creation, investment, and regional economic growth.
Oyebamiji reiterated that the Marine and Blue Economy sector is central to Nigeria’s economic revitalization plans and its international visibility strategy.
He highlighted the government’s progress in modernizing maritime infrastructure and attracting foreign investment, stressing that Nigeria’s location and market size make it a strategic gateway for trade and commerce in West Africa.
The pursuit of the IMO seat, he said, is integral to Nigeria’s plan to accelerate maritime development and integration across the African continent.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, also addressed the symposium, unveiling Nigeria’s aviation investment prospects and reaffirming the government’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and global partnerships.
Nigeria’s participation in the Singapore symposium is part of a broader diplomatic and sectoral campaign to rally support for its IMO Council candidacy.
With the elections drawing near, the country continues to engage key stakeholders and promote its readiness to contribute to international maritime policymaking and sustainable development.
