By Chidi Ugwu
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, announced Nigeria’s bid for Category “C” membership on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council during the 2024 World Maritime Day Parallel Event in Barcelona.
He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to IMO principles, highlighting adherence to key conventions like SOLAS and the ISPS Code.
Oyetola also discussed Nigeria’s initiatives, including the Deep Blue Project, aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to environmental sustainability and collaboration with other nations for a secure maritime future.
According to a statement signed by Muhammad Tahir Zakari, the Head, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Minister also informed his counterparts that Nigeria, as a maritime nation, stands firmly committed to the principles and goals of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). Our active participation in upholding key conventions, such as the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, reflects our dedication to ensuring the safety of international shipping.’’
He noted that Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding the crucial shipping lanes that traverse West Africa and the Gulf of Guinea alongside the country’s bold and consistent steps to secure the Gulf of Guinea waters through deliberate initiatives like the Deep Blue Project, amongst others reflects Nigeria’s commitment to IMO’s principles and goals buttressing reasons to why Nigeria should be considered.
‘‘Nigeria’s commitment extends beyond safety and security. We are fully in tune with the IMO’s environmental protection mandates, as outlined in the MARPOL Convention, and we will continue to adopt measures to reduce marine pollution from ships and promote sustainability within the maritime sector.
In recognition of the fact that the future of shipping is in green energy and sustainable practices, we are also embracing the IMO’s de-carbonization strategy. I affirm here that our diligence is to support the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in shipping.’’ Oyetola said.
He affirmed that as a reliable and responsible maritime nation, Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with all member states to ensure a safe, secure, and sustainable future for the global maritime community. As together, they can chart a course that benefits all nations and secures the future of international shipping.
