The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s maritime security strides, with Secretary-General Arsenio Domínguez singling out the nation’s three-year streak of zero piracy incidents as a regional benchmark. Speaking during a visit to Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, Domínguez didn’t mince words: “Nigeria’s investment in maritime safety infrastructure and inter-agency collaboration—particularly with the Nigerian Navy—has delivered tangible results.” This isn’t just back-patting; it’s a recognition of how Nigeria is reshaping Gulf of Guinea security.
Domínguez’s visit underscores a shift in the narrative around West and Central Africa’s maritime hotspots. Nigeria’s success isn’t just about patrolling its own waters—it’s about exporting stability. The IMO chief explicitly tied Nigeria’s efforts to broader regional security, calling out the country’s leadership in combating piracy and maritime crimes. This is high praise, but Domínguez didn’t stop at commendation. He stressed the need for continued infrastructure development and modern equipment acquisition, signaling that the work isn’t done. The IMO’s commitment to technical assistance—through training, capacity-building, and awareness campaigns—hints at a long-term partnership.
The IMO’s regional Safe Seas Project, set to convene in Ghana next January, will likely build on Nigeria’s momentum. With discussions underway for a new EU-backed maritime governance project, the focus on ports and security could deepen Nigeria’s role as a regional hub. Domínguez’s mention of two additional projects in Southern and Western Africa, complete with progress-tracking indicators, suggests a coordinated push to scale Nigeria’s successes.
But the conversation isn’t just about security. Domínguez’s emphasis on preparing for global challenges—energy transitions, biofuels, seafarer training, and future fuels—positions Nigeria at the crossroads of maritime evolution. His praise for Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria’s training infrastructure isn’t just diplomatic nicety; it’s a nod to the country’s potential as a model for sustainable maritime development.
Minister Oyetola’s response was equally telling. He framed the IMO’s visit as validation of Nigeria’s global standing, tying maritime security to economic opportunity. His mention of partnerships with the Nigerian Navy and other stakeholders reinforces the idea that Nigeria’s success is a collective effort—and one that’s far from over. With presentations from top government officials and sector stakeholders, the visit wasn’t just a photo op; it was a strategic huddle. The question now is how Nigeria—and the region—will capitalise on this momentum.