SSASCGOC Felicitates Minister On IMO Category C Seat , Commends MD NPA ‘s Roles In Successful Outing
The Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporation of Government Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) Maritime Branch has officially felicitates the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy on Nigeria’s successful election to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Category C Council seat, applauding the milestone as a victory for the nation’s maritime sector.
According to a statement made available to DAILY FOCUS NIGERIA on Saturday, and signed by the President of SSASCGOC Maritime Branch, Comrade Akinola Bodunde, the organization also commended the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho
for his unwavering commitment to advancing maritime operations and standards in the country.
Bodunde noted that “This recognition underscores the collective efforts of government and maritime agencies to elevate Nigeria’s profile and influence in the global maritime arena.”
He pointed out that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s campaign for the IMO Category C seat, adding that his leadership included inaugurating an Inter-Ministerial Committee tasked with strategizing a comprehensive and inclusive campaign.
Bodunde reiterated that Oyetola’s administration emphasized diplomatic engagement and operational coordination, which contributed significantly to overcoming previous unsuccessful bids in 2011 and 2019.
He said ” Oyetola efforts culminated in Nigeria reclaiming its strategic position on the IMO Council, an essential platform for maritime policymaking and technical cooperation.
On Dantsoho administrative support for the IMO Category C victory , The Unionist stressed that ” The Managing Director of the NPA, lauded by SSASCGOC Maritime, has demonstrated a high level of dedication to improving port operations, ensuring safety, and driving infrastructural development.
“These efforts align with national goals to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in international shipping and trade.
“The MD’s focus on efficient port management and adherence to international maritime standards consolidates Nigeria’s reputation as a maritime hub in West Africa.
The Trade Union Congress TUC affiliate boss maintained that Nigeria’s return to the IMO Council Category C is crucial due to the country’s geographic and economic importance in maritime activities.
He pointed out that the council membership allows Nigeria to influence global shipping regulations, secure technical assistance, and gain manpower and institutional development support.
“As a voice for West Africa, Nigeria’s re-election ensures the sub-region’s interests are strongly represented in global maritime decisions, especially those affecting maritime safety, environmental protection, and seafarers’ welfare.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, also received commendation from SSASCGOC Maritime for his steadfast support in enabling the ratification of six IMO conventions.
The conventions enhance Nigeria’s compliance with international maritime safety and regulation standards and strengthen the country’s maritime legal framework.
These initiatives have contributed to savings and increased operational throughput at Nigerian ports.
The SSASCGOC Maritime boss further lauded these achievements, emphasizing their role in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime image and attractiveness as a hub for international shipping lines and investors.
“Beyond operational achievements, the Minister’s administration and maritime leadership have focused on safety improvements across Nigeria’s waterways and port facilities. “