The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has commended Nigeria’s strides in maritime security and sustainable ocean governance during his official visit to the country. Speaking in Abuja, Mr. Domínguez praised Nigeria’s achievement of zero piracy incidents over the past three years and hailed the Deep Blue Project as a benchmark for regional collaboration in the Gulf of Guinea.
During a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, Mr. Domínguez acknowledged Nigeria’s strategic investments in maritime safety infrastructure and the effective coordination among security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy. He emphasized that these efforts reflect Nigeria’s leadership in promoting safer seas across West and Central Africa.
The IMO chief also recognized Nigeria’s recent submission to the organization detailing its national and regional security frameworks. While applauding the progress, he called for sustained investment in modern equipment and infrastructure, reaffirming IMO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through technical assistance, training, and capacity-building programs.
Highlighting upcoming initiatives, Mr. Domínguez announced a regional conference in Ghana on the Safe Seas Project and ongoing discussions with the European Union to launch a new maritime governance program focused on port security. He also referenced two regional projects in Southern and Western Africa, which will be monitored using defined performance indicators.
Beyond security, Mr. Domínguez urged nations to prepare for global maritime challenges such as energy transition, biofuel adoption, and financing mechanisms to support seafarer training and infrastructure development.
He lauded Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy as a visionary framework for sustainable marine resource management and expressed admiration for the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, particularly its advanced training facilities. He encouraged stronger collaboration between the academy, the Ministry of Education, and industry stakeholders to guide youth into maritime careers.
In his remarks, Minister Oyetola welcomed the IMO chief’s visit as a testament to Nigeria’s strong partnership with the global maritime body. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to consolidating recent security gains and expanding opportunities within the marine and blue economy sectors.
Presentations were delivered by top government officials and key stakeholders. Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), who outlined reforms in maritime security, seafarer welfare, and regulatory frameworks aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation. Dr. Kevin Okonna, Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, showcased the academy’s simulator-based training and international exchange programs. The Managing Director of Lekki Free Trade Zone,
Mr. Wang Qiang, highlighted the port’s role in enhancing cargo capacity, job creation, and foreign investment.
Mr. Domínguez also engaged with cadets at the Maritime Academy, encouraging them to explore emerging opportunities in green shipping, renewable energy, and maritime technology. He reaffirmed IMO’s dedication to working with Nigeria to strengthen maritime safety, governance, and the sustainable growth of the blue economy, stating that Nigeria’s achievements serve as a model of excellence for Africa and beyond.