Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Lauds MOWCA for Pivotal Role in Supporting Nigeria’s IMO Council Bid
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has expressed his gratitude to Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary-General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), for his instrumental role in mobilizing support for Nigeria’s bid to secure a Category C seat on the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
The Minister made this commendation during a visit to the MOWCA headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Oyetola, represented by Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), highlighted Nigeria’s significant strides in the global maritime community.
The Minister cited the successful implementation of the Deep Blue Project, a $195 million initiative aimed at enhancing maritime security in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea region.
This project, he said has led to a substantial reduction in piracy and other maritime crimes, making Nigerian waters safer for shipping and trade.
The Minister also expressed his gratitude for the support already expressed by MOWCA member states for Nigeria’s candidature to the IMO Council.
He acknowledged that this support is a testament to the strong relationships between Nigeria and MOWCA member states, as well as the trust built over the years.
Oyetola affirmed that Nigeria is committed to fulfilling its obligations to MOWCA and will utilize its influence in the global maritime community to ensure the sustained progress and growth of the organization.
Dr. Adalikwu, Secretary-General of MOWCA, thanked the Minister and the Nigerian government for the visit.
Dr. Adalikwu reiterated MOWCA’s commitment to ensuring that member states benefit from their marine and multimodal transport endowments.
He emphasized the strategic importance of African waters to global trade and noted that MOWCA countries deserve to have their voices heard in global commerce discussions.
He emphasized MOWCA’s efforts to build strategic alliances that promote a sustainable blue economy, attract foreign direct investments, and create jobs for citizens of West and Central African countries.
The Secretary-General also reiterated MOWCA’s thrust to achieve safer inland water travels across the subregion, prevent boat accidents, and loss of lives.
According to him, the stability in the Gulf of Guinea is a result of concerted efforts by Africans and their allies in suppressing piracy, which should qualify a country like Nigeria to be on the council of the IMO.
The visit by Minister Oyetola to MOWCA headquarters is a sign of appreciation for the organisations support and a forerunner to show Nigeria’s gratitude in anticipation of the fulfillment of the expressed support for its successful election to the IMO Council.
Nigeria’s membership in the IMO Council is expected to benefit not only Nigeria but also contribute to the growth and development of the entire MOWCA region.