Tanzania Backs Nigeria’s Bid for IMO Council Seat, Pledges Deeper Maritime Collaboration

The United Republic of Tanzania has formally declared its support for Nigeria’s bid to secure election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, reinforcing a growing wave of continental solidarity for Nigeria’s maritime ambitions on the global stage.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Tanzania’s endorsement was attributed to longstanding bilateral ties and Nigeria’s previous support for Tanzania’s own IMO aspirations.

Speaking through a formal communication addressed to Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, the Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation with Nigeria. He described both nations as “natural partners” with aligned interests in advancing maritime development and regional integration.

“The support stems from mutual respect, shared aspirations, and a strong history of cooperation. Nigeria has stood with Tanzania in the past, and now we stand firmly with Nigeria,” Kakele stated.

Kakele also revealed plans to dispatch a delegation of Tanzanian maritime experts to Nigeria in the coming months to understudy key institutions within Nigeria’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. The initiative, he said, is part of Tanzania’s broader agenda to harness Nigeria’s experience in marine governance and blue economy transformation.

In response, Minister Oyetola welcomed the High Commissioner and his delegation warmly, expressing deep appreciation for Tanzania’s endorsement of Nigeria’s candidacy. He emphasized that Nigeria’s inclusion in the IMO Council would serve both national and continental interests.

“A seat for Nigeria at the IMO Council is, in essence, a voice for Africa,” Oyetola declared. “It means we can collectively advocate for safer shipping, sustainable marine resources, and fairer trade practices across our continent. Nigeria’s extensive coastline, vibrant port system, and strategic maritime policies make us a credible and capable representative.”

The Minister further highlighted key initiatives currently underway within the Ministry, including efforts to establish a national shipping line through a public-private partnership model and to boost intra-African maritime trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“As we unlock the full potential of our blue economy, partnerships like the one we are building with Tanzania will play a vital role,” he said. “Your proposed expert delegation is most welcome, and my Ministry is committed to ensuring a fruitful and impactful engagement.”

Minister Oyetola also extended an open invitation to Tanzanian investors to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector. He pledged to similarly encourage Nigerian businesses to consider Tanzania as a strategic investment destination.

Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the IMO Council is part of its broader maritime diplomacy push, as the country seeks to elevate its leadership role in shaping the future of global maritime governance. The election into the IMO Council is expected to take place later this year.