NACCIMA says Oyetola’s guidance instrumental to Nigeria’s victory in IMO Council bid

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has commended the leadership of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, describing his strategic direction and diplomatic engagement as central to Nigeria’s recent success in securing a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council. The Association said the achievement marks a significant milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector and reinforces the country’s growing influence in global maritime governance.

According to NACCIMA, the minister’s focused approach, sector reforms, and coordination with key agencies were critical enablers that strengthened Nigeria’s bid and ultimately earned the country a place among the influential decision-making members of the IMO. The organisation noted that the victory did not come by chance, but was the product of deliberate planning, international outreach, and efforts to reposition the maritime industry as a major driver of national growth.

NACCIMA explained that Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council is expected to enhance the nation’s ability to contribute to global maritime policy while also ensuring that the interests of African shipping states are better represented. The Association added that Oyetola’s leadership has been instrumental in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s maritime institutions, improving regulatory coordination, and projecting a unified national position during the Council campaign.

Industry stakeholders affirmed that Nigeria’s successful re-election would have a positive impact on shipping, trade facilitation, blue economy expansion, maritime security, and environmental sustainability. For NACCIMA, this opens a new chapter in which Nigeria can more actively participate in shaping rules governing safety, navigation, pollution control, and shipping advancements. The Association highlighted that membership in the IMO Council places Nigeria in a position to strengthen its competitive edge, attract foreign direct investment, and advance long-term maritime transformation.

NACCIMA particularly praised the minister’s efforts in strengthening the relationship between Nigeria and the international maritime community. The Association noted that Oyetola worked closely with agencies such as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, ensuring that Nigeria presented a coordinated and credible case during the elections. This collaboration, it said, was essential in convincing member states that Nigeria is committed to fulfilling its obligations, improving its systems, and contributing substantially to global maritime development.

The Association further stated that Oyetola’s leadership in the blue economy ministry has already begun to yield tangible gains, especially in policy reforms, port efficiency initiatives, maritime safety measures, and the renewed push toward economic diversification through ocean resources. It added that the IMO Council seat aligns with the broader national agenda to harness maritime opportunities, boost non-oil revenue, and develop industries such as shipping, logistics, fisheries, marine tourism, and coastal infrastructure.

Beyond the prestige of securing a seat, NACCIMA emphasised that the responsibility placed on Nigeria requires sustained commitment to international best practices. It urged the ministry and relevant agencies to consolidate the momentum by accelerating ongoing reforms, enhancing port competitiveness, and improving maritime security. The Association highlighted that the Gulf of Guinea remains one of the most critical shipping corridors for global trade and that Nigeria’s role on the IMO Council offers an opportunity to champion greater regional cooperation on maritime safety and security.

NACCIMA also pointed out that the seat strengthens Nigeria’s bargaining power for technical assistance, capacity building, and infrastructure investments that can lift the maritime sector. It stated that this is particularly relevant at a time when the country is seeking foreign partnerships to modernise ports, expand inland waterways, and promote environmentally sustainable shipping practices. Being part of the Council gives Nigeria access to strategic platforms that shape funding frameworks and technical support programs.

The Association encouraged the private sector to take advantage of the opportunities associated with Nigeria’s elevated global maritime standing. According to NACCIMA, improved international reputation can stimulate investor confidence, encourage new maritime-related ventures, and expand Nigeria’s role in regional supply chains. It added that the business community must work closely with government institutions to leverage the benefits of Nigeria’s enhanced status.

NACCIMA also acknowledged the importance of maintaining continuity in policy execution, noting that Nigeria’s maritime reform agenda should not be derailed by bureaucratic bottlenecks or fragmented implementation. It advised that the government deepen engagement with stakeholders, ensure transparency in regulatory processes, and strengthen the maritime workforce to match emerging global standards.

The Association reiterated that Oyetola’s leadership has been pivotal in rallying the country’s maritime stakeholders, strengthening diplomatic connections, and presenting a strong national front at the IMO. It urged the minister to sustain the collaborative approach that contributed to the victory, ensuring that Nigeria uses its Council position to advance both national and continental maritime interests.

With Nigeria’s seat now secured, NACCIMA stressed that expectations are high for improved regulatory efficiency, stronger safety compliance, and greater contributions to global maritime discourse. The Association expressed optimism that the milestone will accelerate Nigeria’s plans to build a more competitive, secure, and diversified maritime economy, ultimately contributing to broader national development goals.