IMO Secretary-General hails Nigeria’s maritime security success, Deep Blue Project
The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has commended Nigeria for achieving zero piracy incidents in its waters for more than three years and for the successful implementation of the Deep Blue Project, describing it as a model for regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
Following his arrival in Nigeria on Thursday, Mr. Domínguez, gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in Abuja. He noted that Nigeria’s investment in maritime safety infrastructure, coupled with the collaboration of security agencies—particularly the Nigerian Navy—had delivered tangible results in combating piracy and maritime crimes.
He emphasized that these efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s leadership in promoting safer seas across West and Central Africa. While applauding Nigeria’s recent submission to the IMO outlining its national and regional security initiatives, he called for sustained investment in infrastructure and modern equipment. He assured that the IMO would continue to provide technical support through training, awareness programmes, and capacity-building initiatives.
Highlighting ongoing projects, the IMO Secretary-General announced a regional conference to be held in Ghana in January on the Safe Seas Project, aimed at consolidating contributions from Nigeria and other partner states. He also disclosed discussions with the European Union on a new maritime governance project focused on ports and security, as well as regional projects in Southern and Western Africa.
Beyond maritime security, Mr. Domínguez stressed the need to prepare for wider global challenges, including the energy transition, adoption of biofuels, and financing mechanisms for seafarer training and infrastructure development. He commended Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy as a forward-looking framework and expressed admiration for the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, particularly its modern training infrastructure.
In his remarks, Minister Oyetola said the IMO chief’s visit underscored the strength of Nigeria’s partnership with the global maritime body. He highlighted the country’s collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and other stakeholders in suppressing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to consolidate recent gains while creating opportunities in the marine and blue economy.
Stakeholders also made presentations during the visit. The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, outlined reforms in maritime security, seafarer welfare, and regulatory frameworks. Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy, Dr. Kevin Okonna, showcased the academy’s training facilities, while the Managing Director of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr. Wang Qiang, highlighted the port’s role in enhancing cargo capacity, creating jobs, and attracting foreign investment.
Mr. Domínguez further engaged cadets of the Maritime Academy, encouraging them to embrace opportunities in renewable energy, green shipping, and maritime technology. He reaffirmed the IMO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening maritime safety, improving governance, and advancing the sustainable growth of the blue economy.
