By Adeyemi David
The Federal Government has commended the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, for his role in Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 2026–2027 biennium.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, conveyed the commendation in a letter dated January 28, 2026, praising Mobereola’s strategic leadership and contributions to securing Nigeria’s victory at the IMO Council elections held in London.
According to the minister, Mobereola’s engagement with IMO member states and effective campaign coordination were instrumental to the country’s success, demonstrating strong commitment to advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests.
“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 said.
He added that the NIMASA boss played a key role in highlighting Nigeria’s maritime potential and reforms, which helped strengthen the nation’s standing within the global maritime community.
“The Ministry commends your pivotal role in demonstrating Nigeria’s maritime potential and reforms, thereby bolstering the nation’s standing in the global maritime community.
As a key member of the Inter-Ministerial Bid Committee, your contributions reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives of the IMO and strengthened international maritime cooperation,” the minister stated.
Oyetola also expressed the Federal Government’s appreciation for Mobereola’s service and voiced confidence in his continued efforts toward advancing Nigeria’s maritime ambitions.
In response, Mobereola expressed gratitude to the minister for the recognition, noting that the achievement was made possible through the leadership and guidance provided throughout the election process.
He attributed the success to the dedication of NIMASA staff and the support of stakeholders, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
“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,” Mobereola said.
The NIMASA chief called for renewed commitment across the agency to justify Nigeria’s election into the IMO Council by strengthening maritime safety, security, marine environmental protection, and capacity development.
Nigeria’s election into Category C of the IMO Council is widely regarded as a strategic milestone that aligns with NIMASA’s statutory responsibility as the country’s maritime administration and reinforces its role in international maritime affairs.
