As competition intensifies for seats on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, Nigeriaโs campaign for a Category C seat is gaining ground, thanks to strong regional backing and diplomatic groundwork led by Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA).
In a formal update to Nigeriaโs Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adalikwu confirmed that MOWCAโs Bureau of Ministers has unanimously endorsed Nigeriaโs candidacy. The decision, ratified at the Bureauโs 10th session on July 10, 2025, is seen as a key boost for Nigeriaโs position ahead of the NovemberโDecember elections.
Beyond the official endorsement, Adalikwu has been actively engaging regional partners. Recent bilateral meetings with transport ministers from the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo have secured further commitments of support, underscoring a growing consensus around Nigeriaโs candidacy.
Adalikwu first signaled this diplomatic strategy in June, during a ferry safety conference in Lagos, where he laid out plans to unify the 25-member MOWCA bloc in support of Nigeriaโs bid. With that vision now taking shape, the country is emerging as a serious contender.
Nigeriaโs campaign rests on a platform of equity, inclusive maritime development, and climate-conscious leadershipโvalues it hopes to bring to the IMO Council amid ongoing shifts in global shipping governance.
With the 40-member Council set to be elected later this year, and bloc votes playing a pivotal role, Nigeria’s momentum suggests it could soon reclaim its seat as a voice for African interests in global maritime affairs.
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