The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, has commended Nigeria for its leadership in maritime safety and governance, highlighting the success of the Deep Blue Project in curbing piracy across Nigeria’s waters and the Gulf of Guinea.
In a letter dated October 9, 2025, addressed to the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Mr. Dominguez praised the Agency’s efforts in strengthening maritime administration and implementing IMO instruments effectively.
“I was particularly pleased to see first-hand the important work being undertaken by NIMASA to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime administration and to advance the effective implementation of IMO instruments,” he wrote.
He described the Deep Blue Project as a landmark initiative that has significantly improved maritime domain awareness and contributed to a safer Gulf of Guinea. Mr. Dominguez encouraged NIMASA to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project so it may serve as a model for regional maritime security.
The IMO chief also recognized Nigeria’s active role in IMO’s technical cooperation and capacity-building programs, especially in areas such as decarbonization, digitalization, and seafarer training.
“These efforts are instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong example of maritime leadership and an active contributor to the work of the IMO,” he added.
Mr. Dominguez extended his appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for his visionary leadership and commitment to the sector. He noted the progress in maritime education, including the new maritime studies building at the University of Lagos, and applauded Nigeria’s push toward greener shipping.
According to the IMO Scribe, Nigeria has always played an important and active role within IMO, contributing meaningfully to the Organization’s work and the advancement of global maritime governance.
PHOTOS: Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, NIMASA DG, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez.