Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has intensified diplomatic efforts to secure Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, holding a series of high-level meetings with leaders from island nations at the recently concluded 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.
In a statement issued by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Minister, during the conference, Oyetola held separate meetings with the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape; the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment of Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Joyelle Clarke; and the Minister of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment of Tuvalu, Dr. Maina Vakafua Talia.
The meetings, according to the Minister, reflect Nigeria’s strategy to build alliances with nations that share similar vulnerabilities and interests in the global maritime sector. Oyetola emphasized that Nigeria’s quest for an IMO Council seat is not solely for national prestige but to enhance representation for African nations, developing countries, and vulnerable coastal and island states in global maritime governance.
“Our ambition is anchored on ensuring that developing and vulnerable states have a stronger voice in shaping maritime policies that affect us all,” Oyetola said. He further assured that Nigeria would be a committed advocate for global efforts aimed at maritime decarbonization.
The Minister pointed to the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023 as evidence of Nigeria’s renewed focus on sustainable ocean governance and blue economy development. He outlined Nigeria’s ongoing initiatives in port modernization, maritime security, ocean sustainability, and coastal community development as part of the country’s broader strategy to reposition its maritime sector.
Oyetola also pledged Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with island nations, stating that the country’s candidacy for the IMO Council was not a one-sided request for support but an offer of partnership. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to advocating for a more equitable maritime regulatory framework that considers disparities in national capacities and promotes access to climate-smart shipping technologies.
“Nigeria is prepared to serve as a credible voice for developing nations within the international maritime system, forging alliances based on shared challenges and mutual interests,” he stated.
As the IMO Council elections draw closer, Nigeria is presenting itself as a Category C candidate dedicated to inclusivity, equity, and climate-resilient maritime development in the face of growing global environmental challenges.
