The Lagos State Government has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, on Nigeria’s historic return to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council—a milestone many describe as a global reaffirmation of the nation’s maritime strength.
In a statement issued on behalf of the state government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hailed the achievement as a monumental step that reinforces Nigeria’s influence, credibility, and leadership within the global maritime community.
Nigeria Reclaims IMO Category C Seat After 14 Years
Nigeria reclaimed its position on the IMO Council last Friday after securing a decisive win in the Category C elections for the 2026–2027 biennium. The election took place during the IMO General Assembly in London on November 28, marking the country’s first return to the Council since 2011.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised President Tinubu for providing the visionary leadership that strengthened maritime governance and restored international confidence in Nigeria’s maritime reforms.
He said the victory highlights the Tinubu administration’s commitment to repositioning the maritime and blue economy sectors as key engines of economic growth and global competitiveness.
Oyetola’s Strategic Diplomacy Credited for the Victory
The Lagos State Governor also commended Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, whose year-long diplomatic efforts, international engagements, and strategic advocacy were instrumental in securing Nigeria’s successful election.
“Dr. Oyetola’s tireless efforts, strategic diplomacy, and clear vision for Nigeria’s maritime future were key to this victory. His leadership continues to elevate the nation’s status in international maritime affairs,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
According to the IMO election details, Nigeria’s victory is widely seen as a global endorsement of the country’s improved maritime security framework, strengthened regulatory reforms, and deepened commitment to maritime safety and cooperation under President Tinubu.
Lagos State Projects Economic Growth and Maritime Transformation
The Lagos State Government expressed optimism that Nigeria’s reinstatement to the IMO Council will unlock broader opportunities, including:
- enhanced foreign investment
- increased port efficiency
- strengthened maritime safety
- expansion of blue economy initiatives
- deeper collaboration with global maritime partners
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Lagos—Nigeria’s maritime gateway—will continue supporting federal efforts to build a resilient, safe, and internationally competitive maritime ecosystem.
He reaffirmed the state’s dedication to promoting sustainable development across Nigeria’s waterways and advancing policies that ensure long-term growth of the maritime and blue economy sectors.
