DR. DAYO MOBEREOLA
Nigeria’s ambition to become Africa’s maritime powerhouse received a powerful boost as the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, embarked on a historic visit that reignited global confidence in the nation’s blue economy vision.
The visit — marked by high-level engagements, facility tours, and strategic discussions — showcased Nigeria’s determination to strengthen partnerships, deepen capacity, and drive innovation across its maritime ecosystem.
Mr. Dominguez, accompanied by the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, was warmly received by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, whose leadership has been instrumental in repositioning Nigeria’s maritime sector for global relevance.
Strategic Engagements at the Highest Level
During a courtesy visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the IMO boss and Nigeria’s leadership explored new areas of cooperation aimed at enhancing maritime safety, sustainability, and innovation. The discussions reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to align its national blue economy agenda with the IMO’s global mission for safer seas and cleaner oceans.
Showcasing Nigeria’s Maritime Strength
A major highlight of the visit was Mr. Dominguez’s tour of NNS Lana, the Nigerian Navy’s state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic research vessel. The 60-metre vessel, equipped with cutting-edge technology, underscores Nigeria’s growing capabilities in hydrographic surveying, environmental monitoring, and marine safety.
At the NIMASA C4i Centre, the IMO Secretary-General witnessed a live demonstration of the nation’s maritime surveillance system. The Centre — the nerve centre of Nigeria’s maritime security operations — integrates radar stations, coastal cameras, and satellite feeds, enabling real-time monitoring of the country’s vast territorial waters. Operated under the Deep Blue Project, it has been pivotal in curbing piracy, illegal fishing, and smuggling across the Gulf of Guinea.
A simulation exercise at the Ojo Cantonment further demonstrated the seamless coordination between NIMASA and the Nigerian Armed Forces, showcasing the nation’s multi-agency synergy in maritime security management.
Empowering Seafarers and Building Knowledge
In a rare engagement, Mr. Dominguez held an interactive session with Nigerian seafarers, commending their resilience and professionalism while encouraging continuous upskilling to meet international standards. He emphasized the IMO’s commitment to seafarers’ welfare, mental well-being, and global employability.
His visit also included a stop at the Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS), University of Lagos, a NIMASA-sponsored project aimed at strengthening maritime education and developing future industry leaders.
Speaking during the visit, Minister Adegboyega Oyetola described the maritime sector as Nigeria’s “next frontier of opportunity in a post-oil era,” urging young Nigerians to pursue maritime careers and leverage emerging opportunities in the blue economy.
“The time has come to unlock the full potential of our maritime sector — through education, technology, and sustainable investment,” the Minister stated.
Reaffirming Global Partnership
Mr. Dominguez lauded Nigeria’s efforts to integrate maritime education into university systems, describing it as a visionary step toward nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals. “The maritime sector offers boundless opportunities. Connecting academia with the industry is how we secure its future,” he remarked.
NIMASA DG Dr. Mobereola also expressed pride in the Agency’s role in supporting maritime education and innovation. “This institute is an investment in Nigeria’s future — a foundation for a globally competitive maritime workforce,” he said.
Nigeria’s Maritime Future: Anchored in Partnership
The IMO Secretary-General’s visit, from high-level diplomacy to hands-on facility tours, reaffirmed Nigeria’s growing stature as a maritime power. It reflected a nation moving from potential to performance, powered by vision, technology, and strong international partnerships.
Under the leadership of President Tinubu, Minister Oyetola, and NIMASA DG Mobereola, Nigeria is charting a bold course toward a sustainable blue economy — one that positions the country as a leading player in global maritime governance.
As Mr. Dominguez’s visit demonstrated, Nigeria’s maritime story is no longer about aspiration — it’s about action. Anchored in partnership, powered by purpose, and propelled by innovation, the nation is sailing confidently toward a prosperous blue future.
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