
Tanzania explores Nigerian model for maritime sector growth, endorses Nigeria’s IMO Council bid
Tanzania explores Nigerian model for maritime sector growth, endorses Nigeria’s IMO Council bid
Tanzania has expressed strong interest in learning from Nigeria’s experience in developing its marine and blue economy sector, highlighting a commitment to deepen strategic maritime cooperation between the two countries. This was announced during a visit by Tanzanian High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele to Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in Abuja. Tanzania also pledged support for Nigeria’s bid to join Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, emphasizing their history of mutual backing and shared goals for Africa’s representation in global maritime affairs.
High Commissioner Kakele revealed plans to send a team of Tanzanian maritime experts to Nigeria for capacity building and collaboration. Minister Oyetola welcomed this initiative and thanked Tanzania for its support, stressing that Nigeria’s IMO Council seat would amplify Africa’s voice on maritime governance, promoting safer shipping, sustainable marine resource use, and fair trade.
Oyetola also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing projects, such as establishing a national shipping carrier through public-private partnerships and efforts to boost intra-African maritime trade, particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Both countries are encouraging bilateral investment in their marine sectors to unlock economic growth through maritime collaboration.
The meeting involved senior officials from both sides and marked a significant step in strengthening Africa’s marine and blue economy cooperation.