Nigeria has successfully regained its seat in Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium, securing a landmark diplomatic win for the nation.
According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR, “the decisive election was held on Friday, November 28, 2025, during the IMO General Assembly in London, where member states voted overwhelmingly in favour of Nigeria’s return to the globally influential maritime council.
Leading the country’s campaign, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, hailed the achievement as the outcome of over a year of coordinated diplomatic efforts. According to the minister, the election victory followed months of shuttle diplomacy, high-level maritime engagements, and sustained advocacy across nations and regional maritime blocs—an intensive push that ultimately delivered the long-awaited breakthrough.
The milestone marks Nigeria’s re-entry into the IMO Council after a 14-year absence, restoring its strategic voice in the global maritime community. With this development, Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to international shipping governance, maritime safety, and sustainable ocean economy, positioning itself as a critical stakeholder in shaping global maritime policies and development.
