In a concerted effort to gain prominence in global maritime affairs, Nigeria has intensified its drive to obtain a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council. This initiative was highlighted at a recent high-profile international maritime and aviation conference convened in Singapore.
Representing the Nigerian Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIWA’s Managing Director, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, made a compelling case for Nigeria’s strategic maritime vision. He emphasized the government’s ongoing plans to revamp maritime infrastructure, aimed at fostering a maritime industry that is secure, sustainable, and attractive to investors.
During the symposium, Oyebamiji underscored the vast potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain as a catalyst for regional economic development. He conveyed Nigeria’s determination to take up a seat at the IMO Council table as a means to influence decisions affecting the global maritime environment, especially within West Africa.
“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, especially in the West African sub-region,” Oyebamiji reiterated, signifying the country’s resolve to assert its maritime interests internationally.
The event focused on leveraging maritime and aviation sectors for job creation and economic advancement. NIWA’s exhibits illustrated ongoing initiatives to harness Nigeria’s blue economy, with Oyebamiji referring to the nation’s coastal zones as rich in untapped resources that could drive investment and employment surges.
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic location, he stressed the government’s agenda to elevate Nigeria as a trade and commerce nexus in West Africa. “We have carefully positioned our Marine and Blue Economy sector to attract global attention, and our pursuit of an IMO Council seat is part of our broader strategy to accelerate economic integration and maritime development across Africa,” he affirmed.