Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has applauded the Federal Government for securing Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, celebrating the victory as a landmark moment for the nation’s maritime renaissance.
In a congratulatory statement on Friday, MARAN’s Caretaker Chairman, Jayeolatunde Ayodele, described Nigeria’s re-election as *“a triumphant return to global maritime leadership”, noting that the outcome signals renewed confidence by the international community in the country’s maritime reforms and security architecture.
Ayodele said the win is the culmination of an intense diplomatic offensive led over the past year by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, whose engagements across continents successfully rebuilt Nigeria’s visibility and credibility on the global maritime stage. Nigeria had been missing from the IMO Council for 14 years.
He emphasized that the victory not only reaffirms Nigeria’s status as a major maritime power in the Gulf of Guinea but also restores its influence in shaping international policies on maritime safety, shipping regulation and ocean governance.
Ayodele commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the political will that strengthened Nigeria’s campaign, saying the administration’s support was instrumental in winning the highly competitive election. He noted that the feat aligns with Tinubu’s drive to position the marine and blue economy sector as a catalyst for national growth.
According to MARAN, the timing of the victory is particularly strategic, coming as Nigeria accelerates reforms in port modernization, waterways security and regulatory efficiency. Ayodele said Council membership will unlock deeper technical cooperation, global partnerships and knowledge-sharing opportunities capable of fast-tracking these reforms.
He urged maritime agencies to maximize the momentum by improving coordination, strengthening service delivery and aligning with global best practices, stressing that Nigeria must now demonstrate readiness to fully utilize its restored seat.
Ayodele reaffirmed MARAN’s commitment to providing accurate reporting and constructive industry analysis while supporting government efforts to transform the sector.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria’s presence on the Council will boost investor confidence, attract new opportunities and amplify the nation’s voice in global maritime affairs.
“With this victory, Nigeria has regained a critical platform to contribute meaningfully to conversations on maritime safety, shipping innovation and environmental sustainability,” he said.
He concluded by restating MARAN’s role as an industry watchdog and partner in progress, assuring that the association will continue to champion accountability and advocate for a maritime sector that reflects Nigeria’s true potential on the international stage.