**Hormuz Strait Closure Leaves Thousands of Nigerian Ships and Seafarers Stranded in Middle East** In a development that has far-reaching implications for the global economy, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has disclosed that no fewer than 3,000 vessels and 20,000 seafarers are stranded in the Middle East due to the closure of the critical Hormuz Strait. Located at the entrance to the Persian Gulf, the Hormuz Strait is a crucial shipping corridor that accounts for 20 percent of the world's oil exports. However, the ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran has made it impassable, with the threat of strikes from Iran and other parties forcing the closure. According to IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, the situation is deteriorating rapidly, with ships being discouraged from navigating in the region. The closure of the Hormuz Strait has significant implications for Nigeria, as many of our ships and seafarers are involved in international trade and commerce. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the majority of Nigeria's oil exports are transported through this route. The closure of the Hormuz Strait could lead to a significant increase in oil prices, which would have a ripple effect on our economy. UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher has warned that the widening conflict in the Middle East could have far-reaching humanitarian consequences, including disruptions to food supplies and healthcare services. The closure of the Hormuz Strait has the potential to strain health systems and make it harder to deliver humanitarian supplies to those in need. As the situation continues to unfold, the IMO is urging member states to find solutions through dialogue to de-escalate the situation and restore free and safe movement across the region. For Nigeria, this means that our ships and seafarers will have to find alternative routes to avoid the Hormuz Strait, which could lead to increased costs and delays. The closure of the Hormuz Strait is a stark reminder of the fragility of the global economy and the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. As Nigeria navigates this challenging situation, we must work closely with our international partners to find solutions that benefit all parties involved.