The federal government has commended Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), for his key role in securing Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
According to NIMASA, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, praised Mobereola in a letter dated January 28, 2026, for his strategic leadership, effective campaign coordination, and engagement with IMO Member States, which were pivotal to Nigeria’s success at the elections in London.
Oyetola highlighted that Mobereola’s efforts enhanced Nigeria’s global maritime standing by demonstrating the nation’s potential and reform initiatives to the international community. The minister also acknowledged the DG’s role as part of the Inter-Ministerial Bid Committee, noting that his contributions reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to IMO objectives and strengthened international maritime cooperation.
In response, Mobereola expressed appreciation for the support of the Ministry, NIMASA staff, and maritime stakeholders, emphasizing that the electoral victory reflects a collective effort. He called for renewed dedication across the agency to justify Nigeria’s IMO Council membership, focusing on maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and capacity development.
Nigeria’s election into Category C, which represents countries with special interests in maritime transport and navigation, positions the country to influence policy decisions affecting African maritime trade, shipping routes, and the broader international shipping industry. Analysts note that the victory enhances Nigeria’s ability to shape global maritime policies, particularly those affecting developing nations and regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
Industry experts also believe that the council seat will attract increased foreign investment in maritime infrastructure, shipbuilding, and allied services, while boosting Nigeria’s negotiating power in international maritime trade agreements. The achievement comes as the country advances reforms under its blue economy agenda, leveraging its 853-kilometre coastline and 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone to diversify its GDP beyond oil and gas revenue and strengthen regional leadership in West Africa.
