Tanzania has announced its full support for Nigeria’s campaign to secure a seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C, marking a major diplomatic boost for Nigeria’s efforts to return to the influential global body after a 16-year absence.
The commitment came during a high-level benchmarking visit by the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The five-day working visit aimed to deepen cooperation and exchange expertise in maritime safety, security, environmental protection, and regulatory capacity.
Speaking on behalf of TASAC Director-General Mohammed Salumu, the Director of Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Protection, Mrs. Leticia Mutaki, said Tanzania firmly backs Nigeria’s candidacy, citing Nigeria’s leadership and influence in Africa’s maritime sector.
“We believe Nigeria’s position on the IMO Council is vital for the region and the continent at large. Tanzania will continue to support this ambition,” she affirmed.
The Tanzanian delegation also expressed interest in long-term cooperation with NIMASA to address shared maritime challenges, enhance port state control, promote seafarer training, and facilitate digital transformation across both administrations. The collaboration is expected to extend to joint initiatives that create job opportunities for African youth and boost the continent’s maritime economy.
Receiving the delegation, NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola emphasized that the engagement goes beyond ceremonial visits, representing a foundation for structured maritime cooperation across Africa. He stressed that Nigeria and Tanzania share aligned maritime policy visions, especially under the leadership of Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
Mobereola also highlighted Nigeria’s Deep Blue project as a model of success in combating maritime insecurity, urging regional partners to prioritize cooperation for stronger outcomes in ocean governance and port safety.
Both parties agreed to intensify their advocacy for Africa’s interests at global maritime institutions such as the IMO and the International Labour Organisation (ILO), strengthening the continent’s voice in international decision-making.
The visit reflects a growing movement toward African maritime unity and underscores the continent’s ambitions to influence global maritime policy while unlocking the full potential of its blue economy.