Tanzania supports Nigeria’s IMO bid, explores maritime growth model
The United Republic of Tanzania has supported Nigeria’s bid for election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization Council, (IMO) citing strong bilateral relations and Nigeria’s past support as key factors.
This was said in a statement signed on Wednesday by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Bolaji Akinola.
The Tanzanian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Selestine Kakele, reiterated his country’s commitment to strengthening strategic maritime cooperation with Nigeria, describing both nations as natural partners with shared aspirations for maritime development.
Kakele made this known in a statement addressed to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
He explained 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 readiness to tap into Nigeria’s experience in developing its marine and blue economy sector.
He announced 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.
Oyetola welcomed the High Commissioner and his delegation, expressing gratitude 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. It means we can 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 said.
Oyetola then highlighted 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.
The Minister also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing intra-African maritime trade, especially under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“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,” he assured.
The Minister further promised 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.