Maritime experts have outlined key reforms Nigeria must pursue after reclaiming its seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C. They warned that the victory must serve as a platform for deeper sectoral transformation, rather than a ceremonial milestone.
Nigeria secured a decisive win in the Category C elections held on November 28 during the IMO General Assembly in London—marking its first return to the Council in 14 years. Stakeholders say the comeback was achieved largely through improved maritime security, especially the sharp decline in piracy incidents across the Gulf of Guinea.
Former President of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners (NAMM), Captain Adewale Ishola, described the victory as “a blessing worth celebrating,” while urging sustained commitment to security and institutional stability.
“I was skeptical about our chances initially. But the reduction in piracy attacks reported by the IMB clearly helped. We should celebrate the feat, but a lot of work is needed to maintain this status,” he said.
President of the Maritime Professionals Forum (MARPRO), Captain Segun Akanbi, agreed that Nigeria’s return is significant, but cautioned that global expectations will now be higher.
Akanbi stressed that Nigeria’s voice at the IMO will now carry more weight, meaning its policies, regulatory performance and maritime governance will attract increased global scrutiny. “Everything we do now will be amplified. The world will be watching,” he warned.
Marine Engineer and senior member of the Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNOWTSSA), Engr. Abel Okey, said the achievement should unlock opportunities for Nigerian seafarers and revive maritime training institutions.
According to him, the industry had shown promise since the late 1970s, but lost momentum. He believes the new IMO position could help rejuvenate indigenous capacity.
“This return should open doors for young mariners from MAN Oron, the Federal School of Fisheries, and the Institute of Oceanography. Nigeria has great potential but very little exposure,” he said, urging policymakers to sustain reforms and create long-term pathways for growth.
Stakeholders unanimously agreed that the win is only the beginning—and that Nigeria’s performance in the next two years will determine whether the country can retain its seat and finally assume a leading role in global maritime governance
