Switzerland supports Nigeria’s bid for seat in IMO
Nigeria’s campaign for a seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council gained momentum Thursday as Switzerland formally endorsed the country’s bid for the Category ‘C’ seat for the 2026/2027 biennium.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, received the letter of support during a courtesy visit from Switzerland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Felix Egloff, in Abuja. The elections are scheduled for October/November 2025.
Oyetola described Switzerland’s backing as a significant step forward” in Nigeria’s campaign, stressing that it reflects the country’s growing reputation in global maritime affairs.
He said: “I am happy for this show of support from the Swiss government. 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.”
The minister stressed the country’s vast maritime potential, noting that the nation boasts 200 nautical miles of Exclusive Economic Zone, extended by another 16,300 kilometers to the continental shelf.
“With such endowment, Nigeria, by any standard, is supposed to be a maritime nation,” he said.
Oyetola highlighted that the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, the African Union’s Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the Kingdom of Norway and other partners, has developed a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy designed to “stand the test of time.”
He further disclosed that the Federal Government is adopting a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to fast-track development in the sector, with the government retaining only a token equity. Areas of focus include inland waterways investments such as supply of boats, dredging activities and navigation infrastructure.
On safety and security, Oyetola pointed to the success of the Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, also known as the Deep Blue Project.
“The Deep Blue project, which is a surveillance structure, has assisted us in keeping our waters very safe. 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,”
Earlier, Ambassador Egloff confirmed that Switzerland’s support followed a formal request from the Ministry in April 2025.
“I’m very glad to convey this letter of support; Switzerland is very happy to support you; you’re a very strong candidate. We support your candidacy, your commitment to multilateralism overall, and in particular in this field you bring. You’re a very important country,” Egloff said.
With the Swiss endorsement, Nigeria’s candidacy has gained additional international momentum as the IMO elections draw closer.
