US Lifts 12-Year Security Restriction on Nigerian Vessels


 

By Abdulahi Musa 


The United States Coast Guard has lifted a 12-year-old Condition of Entry imposed on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria, marking a major development for the country’s maritime industry.


The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the development on Tuesday, describing it as a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen maritime security and improve Nigeria’s position in the global shipping industry.


The restriction was introduced in June 2014 and required vessels that had called at designated Nigerian ports to undergo additional security measures and enhanced scrutiny before entering US ports.


The decision followed four assessments of Nigeria’s maritime security framework and port facilities conducted by the US Coast Guard between March 2024 and April 2026. The assessments reportedly recorded significant improvements in Nigeria’s maritime security performance and compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.


According to the Federal Government, the removal of the restriction is expected to improve the competitiveness of Nigerian ports, enhance vessel turnaround and schedule reliability, and reduce additional security-related costs associated with shipping operations between Nigeria and the United States.


Oyetola attributed the development to sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and other stakeholders to strengthen security standards at Nigerian ports.


The minister commended NIMASA Director-General, Dayo Mobereola, and other stakeholders for their contributions towards achieving the development.


He said the Federal Government would continue working to make Nigeria a safe, secure and competitive destination for international shipping.


The lifting of the restriction is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s participation in global maritime trade while creating a more favourable operating environment for vessels and shipping companies connected to Nigerian ports.

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