On Thursday, October 2, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), to his residence in Lagos, Nigeria. This high-profile visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the IMO, a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating global shipping. The meeting marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest to bolster its maritime sector and harness the vast potential of its blue economy, aligning with the nation’s broader economic diversification and sustainability goals.
The visit was more than a ceremonial engagement; it represented a strategic effort to position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa and a key player in the global maritime industry. During the visit, Mr. Dominguez participated in a critical stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON. The session brought together top officials and industry leaders to discuss pressing issues and opportunities in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Central to the discussions were strategies to enhance maritime safety, streamline trade facilitation, and promote the sustainable exploitation of Nigeria’s abundant marine resources. These priorities reflect the government’s recognition of the maritime sector as a cornerstone of economic growth and a catalyst for job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and environmental sustainability.
Accompanying President Tinubu during the meeting with the IMO Secretary-General were key figures in Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy ecosystem. Among them were the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola; the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola; the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Femi Oloruntola; the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho; and the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji. The presence of these high-ranking officials highlights the government’s concerted effort to align its maritime policies with global best practices and to leverage international partnerships to drive sectoral reforms.
Nigeria’s maritime sector is a vital component of its economy, given its extensive coastline along the Gulf of Guinea, strategic ports, and access to vast marine resources. The country is home to some of Africa’s busiest ports, including the Lagos Port Complex and the Onne Port, which serve as gateways for international trade in West Africa. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, piracy, and regulatory inefficiencies have historically hindered the sector’s full potential. The Tinubu administration has prioritized addressing these issues through the establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023, a bold move to unlock the economic opportunities embedded in Nigeria’s coastal and marine environments.
The blue economy, which encompasses sustainable economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal areas, is a key focus of the administration’s agenda. Nigeria’s marine resources include fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, renewable energy, and seabed mining, all of which hold immense potential for economic diversification. By partnering with the IMO, Nigeria aims to adopt international standards and best practices to ensure the sustainable use of these resources while safeguarding the marine environment. The IMO, with its mandate to promote safe, secure, and environmentally sound shipping, is a critical ally in this endeavor. The organization’s expertise in areas such as maritime safety, environmental protection, and capacity building aligns seamlessly with Nigeria’s goals.
During the stakeholders’ meeting, discussions centered on several key areas. Maritime safety was a top priority, given the need to address incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea, which remains one of the world’s most piracy-prone regions. Nigeria has made significant strides in combating piracy through initiatives like the Deep Blue Project, launched by NIMASA, which deploys maritime assets and technology to enhance security. Collaboration with the IMO is expected to further strengthen these efforts by providing technical assistance and fostering regional cooperation to secure Nigeria’s waters.
Trade facilitation was another focal point of the discussions. Nigeria’s ports handle a significant portion of West Africa’s cargo, but inefficiencies such as delays in cargo clearance and high logistics costs have long been a concern. The government is working to modernize port infrastructure, digitize processes, and improve inter-agency coordination to enhance efficiency. The IMO’s support in implementing global standards for port operations and shipping regulations is vital to achieving these objectives. By aligning with IMO frameworks, Nigeria aims to boost its competitiveness as a maritime hub and attract more international trade and investment.
The sustainable use of marine resources was also a key theme. Nigeria’s blue economy has the potential to contribute significantly to GDP, create jobs, and address food security through sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. However, overfishing, pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to marine ecosystems. The government, in collaboration with the IMO, is exploring ways to promote sustainable practices, such as adopting eco-friendly fishing techniques and reducing marine pollution. The IMO’s global initiatives, such as the MARPOL Convention for the prevention of pollution from ships, provide a roadmap for Nigeria to enhance its environmental stewardship.
President Tinubu’s engagement with the IMO Secretary-General signals Nigeria’s determination to deepen its integration into the global maritime community. The visit builds on previous efforts to strengthen ties with the IMO, including Nigeria’s consistent participation in IMO meetings and its commitment to implementing IMO conventions. As a member state of the IMO, Nigeria has ratified several key conventions, including those related to maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. The government’s proactive approach to aligning with these standards demonstrates its resolve to meet global expectations while advancing national interests.
The presence of key maritime agencies such as NIMASA, NPA, and NIWA at the meeting underscores the collaborative approach being adopted to transform the sector. NIMASA, as the primary regulatory body for maritime safety and security, plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with international standards. The NPA is tasked with managing Nigeria’s ports and driving infrastructure development, while NIWA oversees the development of inland waterways, which are vital for domestic trade and transportation. Together, these agencies form the backbone of Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy strategy.
Looking ahead, Nigeria’s partnership with the IMO is expected to yield tangible benefits. These include enhanced capacity building for maritime professionals, improved infrastructure, and greater access to global markets. The government’s focus on the blue economy aligns with its broader economic agenda, including the Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes job creation, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. By leveraging its maritime assets and international partnerships, Nigeria is well-positioned to unlock new opportunities for economic growth and regional leadership.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s meeting with the IMO Secretary-General marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s maritime journey. The visit highlights the country’s commitment to harnessing its maritime potential, strengthening global partnerships, and promoting sustainable development. With the support of the IMO and the concerted efforts of government agencies, Nigeria is poised to cement its status as a maritime powerhouse in Africa and a key player in the global blue economy. The outcomes of this engagement are expected to drive transformative changes in the sector, benefiting not only Nigeria but also the broader West African region and the global maritime community.
