Nigeria has secured a diplomatic win after being re-elected into Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 term.
The decision, which came during the International Maritime Organization’s General Assembly in London on November 28.
However, the final vote showed strong support for Nigeria’s maritime ambitions.
The development was confirmed on Saturday by President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
He noted that the re-election was seen as a major boost for the country’s image in the global shipping community.
Moreover, the outcome arrived at a time when Nigeria has been pushing to expand its blue economy and improve maritime security.
President Tinubu welcomed the result and described it as a clear endorsement of the nation’s growing influence at sea.
According to him, the vote “reflected the international community’s confidence in the nation’s commitment to safety, security, environmental stewardship, and rules-based maritime operations.”
His statement added weight to the belief that Nigeria’s IMO Council re-election signaled a renewed trust in the country’s maritime leadership.
In addition, the President praised the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, and the staff of the ministry for their strategic efforts.
He also commended NIMASA and Nigeria’s diplomatic team for what he called a display of “dedication, strategic engagement, and professionalism” during the election process.
Tinubu further stated that the mandate aligned with his plan to unlock the full value of the blue economy.
He said the goal was to expand maritime infrastructure, strengthen anti-piracy operations, and position Nigeria as a top regional shipping hub.
Meanwhile, the administration plans to work closely with global partners to support safer seas, cleaner oceans, and a fair maritime regulatory system.
The President also assured member states that Nigeria would justify the trust placed in it.
He pledged “sustained leadership and active contribution to the advancement of international maritime objectives.”
Therefore, the re-election is expected to create new opportunities for the maritime sector, especially as the country continues to improve port reforms and deepen collaboration with global shipping bodies such as Wace.
