By Hyacinth Nwafor
The Federal Government has lauded the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, for his decisive role in Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
The commendation, conveyed in a letter dated January 28, 2026, and signed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, described the victory in London as a product of deliberate strategy, disciplined coordination, and sustained diplomatic engagement.
Oyetola noted that Mobereola’s behind-the-scenes outreach to IMO member states and his firm grip on campaign management proved pivotal, tipping the scales in Nigeria’s favour at a keenly contested global maritime election.
The Minister stressed that the outcome reaffirmed Nigeria’s renewed seriousness in maritime governance and underscored the credibility of reforms being driven under the present administration.
A statement by NIMASA’s Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, FNIPR, portrayed Mobereola as a technocrat with over three decades of experience in transport and infrastructure development, bringing depth and clarity to Nigeria’s maritime ambitions.
Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in March 2024, Mobereola has steered NIMASA towards efficiency, regulatory compliance, and a results-driven posture aligned with international maritime standards.
Under his leadership, the Agency has tightened its regulatory framework, improved safety and security benchmarks, and repositioned Nigeria as a more credible player in the global maritime ecosystem.
His track record at the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), where he midwifed an integrated urban transport system and reshaped mobility in Lagos, continues to define his reputation as a reform-oriented administrator.
Reacting to the commendation, Mobereola expressed appreciation to the Minister and attributed the IMO Council victory to the collective effort of NIMASA staff and the consistent support of sector stakeholders.
Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council, observers say, is more than a diplomatic win; it is a strategic signal of intent, reinforcing the country’s resolve to play a stronger, more responsible role in global maritime safety, security, and marine environmental protection.