Tinubu: Nigeria’s election into IMO council a testament to maritime growth

By Abubakar Yunusa

President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria’s election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) council for the 2026–2027 biennium reflects the country’s growing influence in global maritime affairs.
Nigeria’s election into category C of the council took place during the IMO general assembly in London, United Kingdom, on Friday.
In a statement on Saturday, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president, said Tinubu ascribed the victory to the country’s growing maritime influence and its constructive role in global shipping governance.
“Nigeria’s re-election into Category C of the IMO Council at the election took place during the organisation’s General Assembly in London, on Friday, November 28, after a 14-year absence,” the statement reads.
“While welcoming Nigeria’s success, President Tinubu said it reflects the international community’s confidence in the nation’s commitment to safety, security, environmental stewardship, and rules-based maritime operations.
“The President applauded the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, the staff of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for their dedication, strategic engagement, and professionalism throughout the election process.”
The president said the new IMO council mandate aligns with his administration’s drive to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy, expand maritime infrastructure, strengthen anti-piracy initiatives, and improve the country’s standing as a regional shipping hub.
He assured the global maritime community of Nigeria’s readiness to partner with it to ensure safer seas, cleaner oceans, more efficient maritime transport systems, and to champion cooperation, innovation, and fairness in global maritime regulation.
Tinubu lauded member states for their support and goodwill, pledging that Nigeria will justify the trust reposed in it through sustained leadership and active contribution to the advancement of international maritime objectives.