The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, has applauded Nigeria’s strides in maritime governance, commending the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its steadfast commitment to implementing IMO conventions and improving maritime safety in the Gulf of Guinea.
In a letter dated October 9, 2025, and addressed to the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NIMASA, Mr. Dominguez expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s continuous improvement in maritime administration and enforcement of international maritime instruments.
The IMO Secretary-General praised the Deep Blue Project — Nigeria’s flagship maritime security initiative — describing it as a transformative model for regional safety and maritime domain awareness in West and Central Africa.
“I was particularly pleased to see first-hand the important work being undertaken by NIMASA to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime administration and to advance the effective implementation of IMO instruments,” Dominguez stated.
He noted that the Deep Blue Project, initiated to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and other criminal activities at sea, has significantly enhanced security within Nigeria’s territorial waters and across the broader Gulf of Guinea.
“The Deep Blue Project continues to stand out as a major achievement, significantly improving maritime domain awareness and contributing to a safer and more secure Gulf of Guinea. I encourage NIMASA to maintain its focus on the long-term sustainability of the project so it may serve as a model for broader regional security frameworks,” he added.
Dominguez further highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection, and the global agenda for cleaner, more sustainable shipping. He noted that these actions demonstrate the country’s dedication to upholding international standards.
The IMO Secretary-General also commended NIMASA’s proactive participation in IMO’s technical cooperation and capacity-building programmes, emphasizing Nigeria’s leadership in discussions around decarbonization, digitalization, and seafarer development.
“These efforts are instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong example of maritime leadership and an active contributor to the work of the IMO,” he affirmed.
In addition to NIMASA’s efforts, Dominguez lauded the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, for his visionary leadership and dedication to advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He described Nigeria as “a strong example of maritime leadership” and applauded the government’s unwavering support for international maritime cooperation and sustainable ocean governance.
“I highly value your personal commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sectors and your strong support for the work of the IMO,” the Secretary-General stated. “I was especially pleased to note the significant progress in maritime education, including the development of the new building for maritime studies at the University of Lagos, as well as the advances achieved through the Deep Blue Project.”
Dominguez also praised Nigeria’s collaboration with the IMO on the global decarbonization drive, noting that the country’s efforts toward greener shipping contribute meaningfully to the international push for sustainable maritime operations.
He expressed optimism for continued cooperation between the IMO and NIMASA, emphasizing shared goals for a safe, secure, and environmentally responsible maritime industry.
The commendation, signed by Mr. Dominguez, underscores Nigeria’s growing reputation as a leader in maritime safety and governance in Africa — a position strengthened by NIMASA’s consistent alignment with global best practices and international maritime conventions.
