US Coast Guard Lifts 12-Year Security Restriction on Nigerian Ports

 The United States Coast Guard has lifted a 12-year Condition of Entry imposed on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria, ending enhanced security requirements for ships that had called at designated Nigerian ports.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola announced the development, describing it as a major milestone in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime security and improve the competitiveness of its ports.

The Condition of Entry, which took effect June 25, 2014, required vessels heading to the United States that had visited designated Nigerian ports within their previous five port calls to undergo additional security measures and scrutiny before entering U.S. waters.

Oyetola attributed the lifting of the restriction to sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, in collaboration with government agencies, port and terminal operators, shipping companies and other stakeholders.

He said the efforts focused on strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security framework, addressing identified gaps and ensuring compliance with international security standards.

The United States Coast Guard conducted four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s national maritime security framework and port facilities over the past two years, in March and April 2024, March 2025 and April 2026.

According to Oyetola, the assessments showed significant improvements in Nigeria’s maritime security performance and implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

“The lifting of the Condition of Entry is a major milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector,” Oyetola said.

“It is a strong affirmation of the progress we have made in strengthening maritime security and implementing the ISPS Code across our ports and facilities.”

The minister said the government would continue working to ensure Nigeria remains a safe and competitive destination for international shipping.

Oyetola also commended NIMASA Director-General Dayo Mobereola and his team, saying the development demonstrated the impact of effective regulation, collaboration among maritime stakeholders and sustained investment in security.

The lifting of the restriction removes additional security requirements that had applied to vessels linked to Nigerian ports for more than a decade and is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s position in international maritime trade.