The umbrella body of journalists covering the maritime sector of the economy, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has hailed the Federal Government on Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Governing Council.
Describing the victory as a major boost for the nation’s global maritime standing and a strategic win for the blue economy agenda, MARAN in a press statement signed by its Caretaker Chairman, Pastor Jayeolatunde Ayodele said the association received the news of Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council with immense joy.
The association noted that the development reflects the renewed trust of the international community in the country’s maritime reforms and security efforts.
According to the statement which was made available to Maritime Bits, the victory marked the successful culmination of a year-long diplomatic campaign led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola whose strategic engagements across continents helped rebuild Nigeria’s presence and credibility within the global maritime sphere.
It noted that the win was particularly significant as Nigeria had been absent from the IMO Council for 14 years.
“Nigeria’s election into the Council reaffirms its position as a key maritime state in the Gulf of Guinea and reinforces its role in contributing to international decisions on shipping regulation, maritime safety, and ocean governance. He added that the development would also help drive policy directions that align with Nigeria’s national interest and regional maritime stability”, it added.
MARAN commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strong political backing to the campaign, stating that the President’s support enabled the Ministry to engage effectively with partner nations and maritime blocs in a highly competitive election cycle.
It stated that the win would further strengthen the administration’s drive to reposition the marine and blue economy sector as a growth engine for the country.
Continuing, it said: “The election could not have come at a better time as Nigeria is intensifying reforms across its maritime institutions, including port modernisation, improved waterways security, and enhanced regulatory efficiency. Being on the IMO Council would open more channels for technical cooperation, knowledge sharing and partnerships that could accelerate these reforms.
It enjoined maritime agencies to leverage the momentum created by the victory by deepening collaboration, improving service delivery and aligning their operations more closely with international standards.
According to MARAN, Nigeria must now demonstrate through its actions that it is prepared to take full advantage of its restored seat at the IMO. We reaffirmed MARAN’s commitment to supporting the Ministry and maritime agencies with accurate reporting, constructive analysis and sustained coverage, stressing that the association remains a critical partner in efforts to advance Nigeria’s maritime development. MARAN expects that Nigeria’s renewed presence at the Council will strengthen investor confidence, attract new opportunities and give the country a more influential voice in global maritime affairs.
It also expressed optimism that Nigeria would utilize the platform to contribute meaningfully to discussions on maritime safety, shipping innovations, environmental sustainability and global regulatory frameworks that shape the shipping industry.
“MARAN will continue to uphold its responsibility as the watchdog of the sector while supporting government efforts aimed at improving the maritime domain and ensuring that Nigeria’s interests are well represented on the international stage”, it added.
