Nigeria’s maritime authorities have renewed their drive to tighten port security, as collaboration with the United States Coast Guard continues to yield visible progress in aligning the country with global standards.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to full compliance with the International Ships and Ports Facility Security Code, following a five-day inspection tour by a US Coast Guard delegation across key Lagos port facilities.
Led by the Chief of International Port Security Operations, Bryan Ullmer, the delegation assessed operations at Rano, PTML, Five Star Logistics Terminal, Standard Flour Mill and the NNPC Jetty, focusing on adherence to internationally recognised security protocols.
Ullmer praised the strides made, describing the improvements as significant and evidence of a productive long-term partnership. He noted that cooperation between both countries, dating back to the PICOMSS era, has translated into measurable gains, even as further work remains.
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, acknowledged the progress but stressed that efforts would be sustained to close existing gaps. He said the agency is determined to work closely with its US counterpart to strengthen Nigeria’s port security framework and secure the removal of the Condition of Entry currently placed on Nigerian-bound vessels.
Mobereola added that, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA is ramping up enforcement and compliance measures across all port facilities. He underscored that achieving full alignment with international standards would not only enhance Nigeria’s maritime standing but also unlock greater trade and investment opportunities.
The ongoing partnership reflects a broader strategy to position Nigeria as a competitive and secure hub within the global shipping industry, with authorities signalling that momentum will be maintained until full compliance is achieved.