IMO Secretary-General Commends Nigeria’s Maritime Security and Development Efforts
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The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Domínguez, has lauded Nigeria’s significant strides in maritime security, safety, and human capacity development during his official three-day working visit to the country.
Domínguez, who was accompanied by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, undertook an extensive tour of key maritime formations in Lagos, reaffirming Nigeria’s crucial role in safeguarding maritime activities in the Gulf of Guinea and promoting global trade.
During a visit to the Nigerian Navy’s hydrographic research vessel, NNS Lana, stationed in Apapa, the IMO Secretary-General commended the Navy for its investment in advanced hydrographic capability. He described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening maritime safety and enhancing international navigation.
“Nigeria’s investment in modern hydrographic infrastructure like the NNS Lana demonstrates commendable commitment to safer seas and improved trade facilitation,” Domínguez stated.
The IMO chief also toured two critical facilities of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) — the C4i Centre and the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (RMRCC), both in Kirikiri, Apapa. He applauded Nigeria’s leadership role in securing the Gulf of Guinea and for building strong frameworks for maritime safety and emergency response.
“What I have seen here today reflects Nigeria’s seriousness in tackling maritime threats and promoting collaboration for regional stability,” he noted.
Domínguez’s itinerary further included a visit to the Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he toured academic facilities and engaged with staff and students.
In his remarks, Minister Adegboyega Oyetola praised the university for its contributions to maritime education and manpower development. He emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning the Marine and Blue Economy sector as a key driver of national growth beyond the oil industry.
“We are determined to harness the vast potential of our marine resources,” Oyetola said. “Institutions like UNILAG are vital to building the next generation of maritime professionals who will sustain this vision.”
The IMO Secretary-General’s visit, stakeholders say, marks a renewed era of international collaboration and recognition of Nigeria’s progress in maritime governance, capacity building, and security management.
