IMO Council Election: FG commends NIMASA DG for driving Nigeria’s success 

By Maureen Aguta

The Federal Government has commended the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, for his pivotal role in Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.

The commendation was conveyed in a letter dated January 28, 2026, signed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, following the IMO Council elections held in London.

In the letter addressed to the NIMASA Director-General, the Minister praised Dr Mobereola’s strategic leadership, describing his engagement with IMO Member States and coordination of Nigeria’s campaign as instrumental to the country’s victory.

“Your strategic engagement with IMO Member States and effective campaign management were pivotal to Nigeria’s resounding success at the election, showcasing your steadfast dedication and unrelenting commitment to advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests,” Oyetola stated.

The Minister noted that Dr Mobereola’s contributions, particularly as a key member of the Inter-Ministerial Bid Committee, helped project Nigeria’s maritime reforms and potential to the international community, while reinforcing the country’s commitment to the objectives of the IMO and to stronger global maritime cooperation.

Oyetola further expressed the Federal Government’s appreciation for the Director-General’s service and confidence in his continued role in driving Nigeria’s maritime ambitions under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

In his response, Dr Mobereola expressed gratitude to the Minister for the commendation, as well as for the leadership and guidance provided throughout the election process. He attributed Nigeria’s success to the collective efforts of NIMASA staff and the strong support of industry stakeholders.

“This achievement reflects the dedication of our staff and the strong support of stakeholders, and it further challenges us to remain focused and committed in delivering on NIMASA’s mandate,” he said.

The NIMASA Director-General called for renewed commitment across the Agency to justify Nigeria’s election to the IMO Council, stressing the need to intensify efforts in maritime safety and security, marine environmental protection, and capacity development.

Nigeria’s election into Category C of the IMO Council is widely regarded as a strategic gain, underscoring the country’s growing influence in global maritime governance and aligning with NIMASA’s statutory role as Nigeria’s maritime administration.