Nigeria’s maritime industry achieved a major reset in 2025, driven by regulatory reforms, improved security, labour stability, and strengthened global engagement, setting the stage for renewed confidence in the country’s shipping and blue economy prospects.
According to Osagie Edward, Head of Public Relations at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), under the leadership of Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the agency received commendations from the Presidency, maritime institutions, labour unions, and a wide array of industry stakeholders. Operating under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA pursued a reform-driven agenda focused on maritime safety, capacity development, regulatory efficiency, labour harmony, and international engagement.
A defining highlight of the year was Nigeria’s successful return to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council after a 14-year absence. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally commended NIMASA’s management following the country’s election into Category C of the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium. The President described the achievement as a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in global maritime governance and a reflection of international confidence in the nation’s commitment to maritime safety, security, environmental stewardship, and rules-based operations.
Edward noted that the election to the IMO Council was a result of over twelve months of intensive diplomatic engagement, advocacy, and stakeholder coordination, led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola. He added that Nigeria’s improved maritime security architecture and reforms in the Gulf of Guinea played a decisive role in restoring global confidence.
Another milestone in 2025 was NIMASA’s hosting of the IMO Secretary-General, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez. The visit showcased Nigeria’s maritime reforms, with demonstrations by the Deep Blue security team highlighting the country’s successful anti-piracy efforts, which resulted in zero piracy incidents in Nigerian waters throughout the year.
The agency also advanced human capacity development through initiatives like the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP), addressing seatime backlogs and supporting maritime education. Director-General Mobereola personally attended the graduation ceremony at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, marking the first time a serving NIMASA chief executive attended the event. The Rector of MAN, Dr. Okonna, commended the agency for strengthening seafarer training and improving the quality of maritime manpower.
Maritime labour unions also praised NIMASA’s performance. The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) commended the agency for fostering industrial harmony through successful unionisation and Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA) with shipping companies. The union also recognised NIMASA’s role in curbing piracy and enhancing maritime safety, pledging support for Nigeria’s engagement at the IMO Council and initiatives to improve seafarers’ welfare, including a revised minimum wage framework.
Additionally, under the supervision of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA addressed bottlenecks in the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, creating strong expectations for progress in 2026. Internally, the agency improved staff welfare and motivation through promotions, training, and capacity-building initiatives, boosting professionalism and institutional efficiency.
Edward summarised NIMASA’s 2025 performance as delivering renewed credibility, stronger stakeholder partnerships, and measurable progress for Nigeria’s maritime industry. He noted that the agency’s alignment with the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda, combined with growing international recognition, positions Nigeria for even greater impact in the years ahead.
In a New Year message, Director-General Mobereola expressed appreciation for the cooperation and support of stakeholders, describing 2025 as a momentous year marked by significant achievements and renewed international confidence. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to consolidating these gains in 2026, stating, “I am confident that through our joint efforts, we will achieve even greater outcomes for the sector and the nation.”
Mobereola concluded by wishing stakeholders and their families a peaceful, productive, and rewarding 2026, underscoring his optimism for continued growth and collaboration within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
