Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has commended Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project as a model of effective maritime security coordination in the Gulf of Guinea, urging the Federal Government to sustain the initiative for long-term stability and economic growth.
Mr. Domínguez made the remarks during his official three-day visit to Nigeria, where he inspected the operational base of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) at the Nigerian Navy Underwater Jetty, Ojo, Lagos.
Speaking alongside the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the IMO chief described the Deep Blue Project as “one of the most impressive displays” of maritime security coordination he has witnessed globally.
“Maritime security is critically important for Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea, and the results speak for themselves. I strongly encourage the government to sustain it. The impact is clear improved security supports the economy, trade, and the confidence of the international maritime community,” Domínguez said
The Deep Blue Project, spearheaded by NIMASA, integrates multiple layers of security from air and sea assets to intelligence coordination among agencies to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime crimes. The project has been credited with achieving zero piracy incidents in Nigeria’s national waters over the past three years.
Minister Oyetola emphasized that the initiative underscores Nigeria’s capability to safeguard its maritime domain and reflects the government’s commitment to international security standards.
“The Deep Blue Project is a multi-layered security architecture that brings together various agencies in collaboration. Our determination is to sustain the project so that no barriers or interruptions affect its effectiveness. It has proven its capacity to secure our waters and protect our maritime economy,” Oyetola explained.
He added that the project’s success enhances Nigeria’s credentials as the country seeks re-election into the IMO Council, a key decision-making body within the global maritime organization.
“With this progress, we can present a strong case for Nigeria’s election to the IMO Council, Our goal is to strengthen Nigeria’s voice in shaping global maritime policy,” he noted.
After touring the project’s facilities, Domínguez praised the sophistication of NIMASA’s assets and the professionalism of its personnel.
“They are fully equipped and professionally operated,” he observed. “The demonstrations I witnessed prove that Nigeria has the right tools and the right people to ensure maritime safety.”
In a lighthearted moment, the IMO Secretary-General revealed that he had earned a local nickname “Segun Domínguez” during his visit, adding humorously,
“I haven’t stopped eating since I arrived. I still look forward to tasting Nigeria’s famous local rice dish.”
Domínguez also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s campaign for IMO Council re-election, commending its record of leadership in maritime safety.
“Nigeria has served on the Council before and has demonstrated strong leadership. I wish the country success in the upcoming elections.”
Capping the visit, NIMASA’s Special Forces staged a thrilling live demonstration to showcase their tactical expertise and commitment under the Deep Blue Project.
The exercise, held in honor of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, and NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola fondly hailed as “Baba Deep Blue” featured a simulated high-sea rescue and counter-piracy operation involving interceptor boats, special mission helicopters, and C4I command coordination.
The operatives executed rapid threat detection, vessel boarding in “Komodo style,” and synchronized neutralization of targets, showcasing the precision, discipline, and effectiveness of the Deep Blue assets.
“Our single mission is to ensure that the Deep remains Blue,” the operatives declared a symbolic pledge to keep Nigeria’s maritime domain safe and secure.
The demonstration concluded with a coordinated aerial and maritime salute to national leaders and partners. Domínguez’s presence, officials noted, “honored Nigeria’s waters and strengthened the nation’s resolve to maintain maritime safety.”
As the operatives returned to base, one message resonated across the waterfront piracy has no place in Nigeria’s waters. With the Deep Blue Project earning international recognition, stakeholders agree that sustaining it will be vital to consolidating Nigeria’s leadership within the IMO and ensuring lasting peace and security across the Gulf of Guinea.