NIMASA DG: Zero piracy, IMO seat drives maritime sector gains

Nigeria’s maritime sector closed 2025 on a high note, buoyed by a full year without piracy incidents, new international treaty commitments, and the country’s election into the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, Category C, The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has announced.

The agency’s Director-General, Dayo Mobereola, in a statement signed by the Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, said these achievements reflected growing investor confidence, operational stability, and stronger global positioning for the maritime industry. He extended felicitations to industry stakeholders during the festive season.

Describing 2025 as a productive year for maritime business and regulation, Mobereola assured operators that NIMASA would intensify efforts to deliver even better outcomes in 2026. Key highlights of the year included a sustained zero-tolerance regime against piracy in Nigerian waters, the deposition of three Instruments of Accession to IMO conventions signed by President Bola Tinubu, improved industrial harmony, and Nigeria’s successful election into the IMO Council.

“The year 2025 has been a good one for our industry as we recorded no piracy attacks in our waters, deposited three Instruments of Accession to IMO Conventions signed by President Bola Tinubu, and maintained industrial harmony, culminating in Nigeria’s election into the Category C Council of the International Maritime Organisation,” Mobereola said.

He emphasized that these gains strengthened Nigeria’s maritime business environment, enhanced safety, and lowered risk premiums for shipping, offshore operations, and port-related investments.

Acknowledging the contributions of operators, unions, and other partners, Mobereola stressed that stakeholder collaboration was central to the sector’s stability and growth. “We couldn’t have done this without our stakeholders, who have contributed in various ways throughout the year. We see you, we thank you, and we felicitate with you during this yuletide season,” he added.

Looking ahead, the NIMASA chief urged industry players to approach 2026 with renewed optimism, noting that Nigeria’s election into the IMO Council carries higher global expectations and responsibilities. 

“To whom much is given, much is expected. You can therefore be sure of increased momentum in our resolve to sustain maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and adherence to conventions with renewed vigour,” he said.

Mobereola concluded by acknowledging the support of President Tinubu, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, industry stakeholders, as well as NIMASA’s management and staff, while wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.