David
In a major diplomatic endorsement, the United Republic of Tanzania has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s bid for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, citing strong bilateral relations and Nigeria’s past support as key factors. This declaration was made during a courtesy visit by the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, His Excellency Selestine Gervas Kakele, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Speaking during the visit, High Commissioner Kakele reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to fostering strategic maritime cooperation with Nigeria, describing both countries as natural partners with shared aspirations for maritime development. He noted that Tanzania’s support for Nigeria’s IMO Council bid stems not only from gratitude for Nigeria’s previous backing of Tanzania’s own IMO aspirations, but also from mutual respect and a shared vision for Africa’s voice on the global maritime stage.
The High Commissioner further expressed Tanzania’s eagerness to tap into Nigeria’s experience in developing its marine and blue economy sector. He revealed plans to dispatch a team of Tanzanian maritime experts to Nigeria in the coming months to understudy key government agencies under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
In his response, Minister Oyetola welcomed the High Commissioner and his delegation, expressing deep appreciation for Tanzania’s backing of Nigeria’s bid to secure a seat on the IMO Council. The Minister emphasized that Nigeria’s election into Category C would not only serve national interests but would also bolster Africa’s collective influence in international maritime governance.
“A seat for Nigeria at the IMO Council is, in essence, a voice for Africa,” Oyetola said. “It means we canf collectively advocate for safer shipping, sustainable marine resources, and fairer maritime trade practices across our continent. Nigeria’s vast coastline, dynamic port system, and active maritime policies make us a worthy representative of Africa on the global maritime stage.”
Oyetola went on to highlight the numerous initiatives being undertaken by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, including efforts to establish a national shipping carrier through a public-private partnership framework. He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing intra-African maritime trade, especially under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“We believe the future of Africa’s economic resilience lies in maritime collaboration. As we unlock the full potential of our blue economy, there is enormous value in partnerships like the one we are building with Tanzania,” the Minister said. “Your proposed expert delegation is welcome, and my Ministry will provide all necessary support to ensure a productive engagement.”
The Minister further pledged to encourage Nigerian investors to consider opportunities in Tanzania while also calling on Tanzanian investors to invest in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector.
The Tanzanian delegation included Minister Plenipotentiary Allen Kuzilwa and Minister Counsellor Philbert Peter. On the Nigerian side, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola; Director of Maritime Safety and Security, Mr. Babatunde Bombata; Director of Maritime Services, Dr. Mercy Ilori; and Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Professor Busayo Fakinlede, were present at the meeting.
As both countries continue to deepen maritime collaboration, the visit marks a significant step towards shared progress in Africa’s evolving marine and blue economy landscape.
[7/30, 3:58 PM] David Oladimeji: IGP Felicitates POWA on 2025 Annual Convention
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has congratulated the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) on its 2025 Annual National Convention. The convention is scheduled to hold from July 30th to August 1st, 2025, in Lagos State.
The theme for this year’s convention is “Unlocking POWA Potentials and Transformational Leadership.” This theme underscores POWA’s commitment to embracing innovation, leadership, and strategic partnerships that align with modern realities.
POWA’s initiatives focus on promoting the welfare of police families through education, healthcare, empowerment, and skills development. The association has been working closely with state governments and other stakeholders to support police families and enhance their well-being.
Recently, POWA commissioned a model children school in Bauchi State, underscoring its commitment to quality education for police families. This initiative is part of POWA’s efforts to provide support to police families and enhance their well-being.
IGP Egbetokun reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to improved welfare packages for personnel. He emphasized the importance of supporting police families and enhancing their well-being.
Dr. (Mrs.) Elizabeth Egbetokun, the President of POWA, has been leading the association’s efforts to support police families and enhance their well-being. Under her leadership, POWA has continued to grow and expand its initiatives.
The 2025 Annual National Convention of POWA will be a defining moment in the Association’s ongoing evolution as a catalyst for empowerment and national development. The convention will provide a platform for POWA members to discuss key issues affecting police families and identify solutions.
The convention will bring together key stakeholders, including government officials, security experts, and civil society organizations. The event will provide a platform for discussion and collaboration on issues affecting police families.
POWA’s initiatives aim to empower police families and promote national development. The association’s efforts have been recognized and appreciated by the Nigeria Police Force and other stakeholders.
POWA has been working closely with state governments and other stakeholders to support police families and enhance their well-being. The association’s efforts have been successful due to its collaborative approach.
POWA’s initiatives have had a significant impact on police families. The association’s efforts have improved the welfare of police families and enhanced their well-being.
The 2025 Annual National Convention of POWA is a significant event that will discuss key issues affecting police families and identify solutions. The convention will provide a platform for POWA members to network and collaborate with other stakeholders.
The outcome of the convention will have significant implications for the future of POWA and its initiatives. The convention will provide a platform for POWA members to chart a new course for the association and identify new initiatives.
The IGP’s felicitations to POWA on its 2025 Annual Convention is a testament to the association’s importance and relevance. The convention will be a significant event that will discuss key issues affecting police families and identify solutions.
The convention should provide recommendations for improving the welfare of police families and enhancing their well-being. These recommendations should be implemented by the relevant stakeholders.
POWA’s initiatives will continue to support police families and enhance their well-being. The association’s efforts will be guided by its commitment to empowerment and national development.