In a significant diplomatic gesture, the United Republic of Tanzania has formally endorsed Nigeria’s candidacy for Category C membership of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council. The endorsement highlights deepening bilateral ties and shared ambitions for maritime progress across Africa.
During a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, in Abuja on Wednesday, Tanzanian High Commissioner His Excellency Selestine Gervas Kakele expressed unwavering support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid. He emphasized that Tanzania’s backing is rooted in mutual respect, historical goodwill, and a common vision to elevate Africa’s representation on the global maritime stage.
High Commissioner Kakele described Nigeria and Tanzania as natural partners, stressing the importance of regional collaboration in marine and blue economy development. He announced plans to deploy a team of Tanzanian maritime professionals to Nigeria to learn from the country’s institutional frameworks and strategies.
Kakele stated that Nigeria’s support in the past has not gone unnoticed, and it’s now Tanzania’s turn to stand by Nigeria, not only out of gratitude, but because of the belief in Africa’s unified voice in international maritime affairs.
Minister Oyetola welcomed the Tanzanian delegation with appreciation, noting that Nigeria’s pursuit of a Category C seat on the IMO Council represents a broader mission to amplify Africa’s stake in global maritime governance.
“A seat for Nigeria at the IMO Council is, in essence, a voice for Africa,” the Minister said. “It means we can collectively advocate for safer shipping, sustainable marine resources, and fairer maritime trade practices across our continent.”
Oyetola outlined ongoing initiatives within the ministry, including the planned establishment of a national shipping line through public-private partnerships and efforts to strengthen intra-African maritime trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Minister affirmed Nigeria’s readiness to support Tanzania’s knowledge exchange mission, adding that Nigerian investors would be encouraged to explore opportunities in Tanzania’s maritime sector. Similarly, he invited Tanzanian stakeholders to consider investments within Nigeria’s evolving blue economy space.
The Tanzanian delegation included Minister Plenipotentiary Allen Kuzilwa and Minister Counsellor Philbert Peter. Nigerian attendees at the meeting included Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy; Mr. Babatunde Bombata, Director of Maritime Safety and Security; Dr. Mercy Ilori, Director of Maritime Services; and Professor Busayo Fakinlede, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy.
This landmark visit signals a renewed commitment to African maritime cooperation and a shared determination to unlock the economic potential of the continent’s blue resources.
PHOTO: Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (4th from left); Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Selestine Gervas Kakele (5th from left); Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola (3rd left) and other officials when the High Commissioner visited Oyetola in Abuja on Wednesday.