"Nigeria A Model For Regional Cooperation In The Gulf of Guinea" — IMO Secretary-General
Kathy Kyari
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has applauded Nigeria’s strides in maritime security and blue economy development, describing the country’s achievements as “a model for regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.”
Domínguez, who arrived in Nigeria on Thursday, commended the nation’s success in recording zero piracy incidents for more than three years, crediting this milestone to the groundbreaking Deep Blue Project and the effective collaboration of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy.
“Nigeria’s investment in maritime safety infrastructure and the collaboration of its security agencies have yielded tangible results in combating piracy and maritime crimes,” he said during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON. “These efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to ensuring safer seas, not just for its own waters but for the wider West and Central African region.”
The IMO chief acknowledged Nigeria’s recent submission to the organization outlining national and regional security initiatives, while urging sustained investment in modern infrastructure and equipment. He pledged that the IMO would continue supporting Nigeria with technical assistance through awareness campaigns, training programmes, and capacity-building initiatives.
Highlighting ongoing global and regional initiatives, Domínguez referenced a regional Safe Seas Project conference set to hold in Ghana in January, as well as discussions with the European Union on a new maritime governance project. He also pointed to regional projects in Southern and Western Africa, where progress would be measured against defined indicators.
Beyond security, the Secretary-General stressed the importance of preparing for global challenges such as the energy transition, adoption of biofuels, and financing mechanisms for seafarer training, infrastructure, and future fuels.
He praised Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy as “a forward-looking initiative” and expressed admiration for the Maritime Academy of Nigeria’s facilities in Oron, urging stronger collaboration between the academy, the Ministry of Education, and industry stakeholders to nurture young maritime professionals.
Minister Oyetola described the IMO chief’s visit as a testament to Nigeria’s strong relationship with the global maritime body, noting that partnerships with the Navy and other stakeholders had been pivotal in suppressing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. “We are determined to consolidate recent gains and expand opportunities in the marine and blue economy,” he said.
At the meeting, presentations were made by key stakeholders. The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, highlighted reforms in security, seafarer welfare, and regulatory frameworks.
Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Dr. Kevin Okonna, showcased the academy’s simulator-based training and called for stronger international partnerships. The Managing Director of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr. Wang Qiang, outlined the port’s role in boosting cargo handling, job creation, and foreign investment.
Domínguez also interacted with cadets of the Maritime Academy, encouraging them to seize opportunities in renewable energy, green shipping, and maritime technology. He reaffirmed IMO’s commitment to strengthening maritime safety, governance, and the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s blue economy, saying: “Nigeria’s achievements already serve as a model of excellence for Africa and beyond.”
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