Nigeria’s push for a stronger role in the global maritime industry has gained fresh momentum following Switzerland’s endorsement of the country’s campaign for the Category ‘C’ seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2026/2027 biennium elections.

The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy announced the development after Minister Adegboyega Oyetola received a formal letter of support from Switzerland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Felix Egloff, during a courtesy visit last week.

Oyetola described the endorsement as an important step that strengthens Nigeria’s chances in the elections, noting that it reflects the dedication of the Federal Government to global maritime development.

“This marks a significant step forward for Nigeria’s campaign. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Federal Government to upholding international standards. Nigeria’s election will contribute to a more robust and sustainable global maritime industry.”
Minister Adegboyega Oyetola

The minister emphasized Nigeria’s maritime potential, stressing that the nation is naturally positioned to play a leading role in international shipping. He highlighted the country’s extensive coastline and territorial reach.

“Nigeria has 200 nautical miles of exclusive economic zone, which has been extended by another 16,300 kilometers to the Continental Shelf. With such endowment, Nigeria, by any standard, is supposed to be a maritime nation.”
Minister Adegboyega Oyetola

Nigeria Gains Boost In Maritime Campaign

In outlining government initiatives, Oyetola pointed to the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, designed in collaboration with international partners such as the World Bank, AU IBAR, and the Kingdom of Norway. He explained that the policy is structured to withstand future challenges while driving sustainable growth in the sector.

The minister also highlighted that Nigeria is adopting a public-private partnership (PPP) model as part of its strategy to accelerate maritime sector development. Under this arrangement, the government maintains a minor equity share while encouraging private investment to modernize the sector.

Key priority areas, Oyetola added, include investments in inland waterways through improved navigation, dredging, and provision of boats. He further noted that Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project, which provides surveillance capabilities across its waters, has helped to enhance security. “The Deep Blue project, which is a surveillance structure, has assisted us in keeping our waters very safe,” he explained.

“There’s been no piracy for the past three years, and we’re trying to sustain that. We try again to ensure that we extend the safety to even the Gulf of Guinea as part of our collaboration with other countries.”
Minister Adegboyega Oyetola

Ambassador Egloff, in delivering the Swiss government’s endorsement, said the decision was informed by Nigeria’s proven commitment to multilateralism and maritime security. He disclosed that the support followed a request made earlier this year by Oyetola for Switzerland’s backing.

“I am very glad to convey this letter of support; Switzerland is very happy to support you; you are a very strong candidate. We support your candidacy, your commitment to multilateralism overall, and in particular, in this field. You’re a very important country.”
Ambassador Patrick Felix Egloff

The endorsement underscores Nigeria’s growing recognition as a key maritime player, particularly in Africa, where its shipping routes, ports, and waterways serve as vital trade links.

With elections scheduled for October and November 2025, the support from Switzerland represents a major boost for Nigeria’s campaign. Oyetola, expressing gratitude, said the move reflects the confidence of the international community in Nigeria’s efforts to improve maritime safety and infrastructure. “It is a testament to the Federal Government’s hard work and dedication to upholding international standards,” he affirmed.

If successful, Nigeria’s election into the IMO Category ‘C’ Council will give the country greater influence in shaping global maritime policies, especially those concerning safety, environmental standards, and international shipping regulations.