Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has lauded Nigeria’s achievements in maritime security, particularly its success in recording zero piracy incidents for over three years and the Deep Blue Project, which he describes as a model for regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
Domínguez, who arrived in Nigeria yesterday, made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
He noted that Nigeria’s investment in maritime safety infrastructure, combined with the collaboration of its security agencies, especially the Nigerian Navy, had yielded tangible results in combating piracy and maritime crimes.
According to him, these efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to ensuring safer seas, not just for its own waters but for the wider West and Central African region.
The IMO chief assured that the IMO would remain committed to providing technical assistance through awareness campaigns, training programmes and capacity-building initiatives.
Oyetola, in his address, said the IMO chief’s visit reflected the strength of Nigeria’s relationship with the global maritime body.
He noted that Nigeria’s partnership with the Nigerian Navy and other stakeholders had been pivotal in suppressing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and reaffirmed the country’s determination to consolidate recent gains and expand opportunities in the marine and blue economy.
Oyetola thanked Domínguez for choosing Nigeria for the visit and expressed optimism that the discussions would further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, highlighted ongoing reforms and initiatives in security, seafarer welfare, and regulatory frameworks aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation.
The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Dr Kevin Okonna, showcased the academy’s modern training facilities and underscored the importance of international partnerships in cadet exchange and simulator-based training.
The Managing Director of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr Wang Qiang, outlined the port’s role in boosting Nigeria’s cargo handling capacity, creating jobs and attracting long-term foreign investments.
