A frontline gubernatorial aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, on Nigeria’s election into the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
Describing the victory as historic and well-deserved, Oyebamiji said the development reflects the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the exceptional administrative acumen, competence and transformative leadership displayed by Dr. Oyetola since assuming office as Minister.
The election, held during the IMO General Assembly in London, marks Nigeria’s triumphant return to the Council after a 14-year absence, restoring the nation’s global relevance within the community of maritime nations. Nigeria now joins 19 other countries in Category C, a group reserved for nations with special interests in maritime transport and navigation, and selected to ensure balanced geographical representation within the IMO.
In his congratulatory message, AMBO praised President Tinubu for spearheading bold socioeconomic reforms that have catalysed significant progress across sectors, noting that this international recognition aligns with the administration’s steady achievements.
Oyebamiji, who is the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), highlighted the monumental strides recorded in the maritime sector under Dr. Oyetola’s leadership. He noted that the election into the IMO Council further validates the Minister’s patriotism, commitment and dedication to national growth and development.
“This hard-won victory is a testament to President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to redefining Nigeria’s economy and lifting the nation to greater heights. It is also evidence of the relentless efforts of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who has worked tirelessly to elevate the maritime sector for global competition and recognition,” he said.
“With Nigeria’s return to the comity of maritime nations, it is clear that the country is in safe hands under the leadership of President Tinubu. This is a milestone achievement and a proud moment in our national history.”
Oyebamiji added that Dr. Oyetola has once again demonstrated his administrative brilliance and strategic foresight, taking the maritime sector to enviable heights.
“On behalf of my family and the AMBO Movement, I heartily congratulate our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Honourable Minister, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, on this giant stride that has redefined our national trajectory. As we return to the IMO Council, I am confident that Nigeria will benefit immensely under the guidance of our Honourable Minister, who has shown unwavering commitment to raising the bar in the maritime sector.”
He reaffirmed his belief that Nigeria’s renewed presence on the IMO Council will further strengthen the country’s international maritime relevance and accelerate sectoral development in line with global best practices.
