Bid for IMO Council Seat: Nigeria Receives MOWCA Ministers’ Backing
By Raheem Ibrahim
Nigeria’s bid for a Category C seat on the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council has received a significant boost, following the endorsement by the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) Ministers.
Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary-General of MOWCA, mobilised support for Nigeria’s candidacy ahead of the IMO Council elections scheduled for November 2025. He disclosed that the MOWCA Bureau of Ministers unanimously endorsed Nigeria during its 10th session held on July 10, 2025.
Dr. Adalikwu also revealed that he had met with ministers from the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, both of whom reaffirmed their support for Nigeria’s bid.
The collective backing of MOWCA’s 25 member states is expected to significantly enhance Nigeria’s chances in the upcoming election.
Nigeria is presenting itself as a Category C candidate focused on inclusivity, equity, and climate-resilient maritime development.
The IMO Council election will take place during the 34th session of the IMO Assembly, scheduled for November–December 2025, during which 40 countries will be elected to serve on the Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
Dr. Adalikwu had earlier expressed his intention to rally support from MOWCA member states during a ferry safety conference held in Lagos in June. That effort appears to have paid off, as MOWCA Ministers have now thrown their weight behind Nigeria’s candidacy.
