The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening maritime collaboration with the Gambia, with a particular focus on enhancing regional security and fostering economic growth. This declaration was made at the Fourth Blue Economy Conference held in Banjul, Gambia, where Oyetola’s message was conveyed by the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola.
In his statement, Oyetola highlighted the importance of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, which has become an increasingly critical area for global trade, particularly in the wake of the recent disruptions in the Suez Canal. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to improving its maritime security infrastructure and expanding its influence beyond its territorial waters.
Expanding the Deep Blue Project and Regional Cooperation
A key part of Nigeria’s maritime security efforts involves the Deep Blue Project, a comprehensive initiative aimed at curbing piracy and ensuring the safety of maritime traffic in the Gulf of Guinea. Oyetola revealed that discussions are underway to extend the operations of the Deep Blue Project to cover a broader area within the Gulf of Guinea. The goal is to further bolster security as shipping traffic increases around the African continent, driven by disruptions in global trade routes.
“We are dedicated to ensuring safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea region. Given the recent disruption in global trade caused by the crisis in the Suez Canal, there has been a surge in shipping traffic around Africa. To address this, Nigeria is working towards extending the operational coverage of its Deep Blue assets to further enhance maritime security,” Oyetola said.
The minister’s remarks emphasize Nigeria’s role as a stabilizing force in the region, aiming to promote cooperation and sustainable development through the blue economy. This initiative seeks not only to ensure maritime security but also to boost the economic prospects of the region, aligning with global efforts to promote environmental sustainability and safe shipping practices.
Nigeria’s Candidacy for IMO Council Re-election
At the conference, Oyetola also took the opportunity to announce Nigeria’s formal candidacy for re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category ‘C’ for the 2026-2027 biennium. He called on delegates from the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) to support Nigeria’s bid, highlighting that Nigeria’s continued presence on the IMO Council would strengthen Africa’s voice in global maritime decision-making.
“Let me take this opportunity to inform this esteemed gathering that Nigeria has formally declared its candidacy for the IMO Council election under Category ‘C’ for the 2026-2027 term. We seek the kind support and vote of member states of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa in the forthcoming election at the 34th IMO Assembly Session. Nigeria’s representation in the IMO Council will strengthen Africa’s voice in global maritime decision-making, particularly in areas related to the blue economy, maritime safety and security, and environmental sustainability,” Oyetola explained.
Global Recognition of Nigeria’s Maritime Security Efforts
Oyetola further noted that Nigeria’s efforts in maritime security have garnered global recognition. The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) and the IMO have both commended Nigeria for the successful deployment of the Deep Blue Project, which has contributed to zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters for the past three years.
This achievement underscores the effectiveness of Nigeria’s maritime security strategy and its significant impact on the broader region. By maintaining a safe environment for shipping, Nigeria has positioned itself as a leader in maritime security within the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.
Fostering Strategic Partnerships for Regional Development
The former governor of Osun State reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening maritime security and advancing shared economic interests. Through sustainable blue economy initiatives, Nigeria aims to help facilitate the growth and prosperity of West and Central African nations.
“We are committed to fostering strategic partnerships, strengthening maritime security, and advancing the shared economic interests of West and Central African nations through sustainable blue economy initiatives,” Oyetola concluded.
As Nigeria works to expand its maritime influence and strengthen collaboration with neighboring nations like the Gambia, the country continues to demonstrate its leadership role in enhancing the security and economic viability of the Gulf of Guinea. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring the continued safety of one of the world’s most vital maritime regions while promoting sustainable growth for the future.
