The United States (US) Government has commended Nigeria for strengthening security at its ports, following the lifting of a 12-year restriction on vessels travelling from Nigeria to the United States.
The development came after the United States Coast Guard removed Nigeria from its Port Security Advisory, ending the Condition of Entry imposed on vessels calling at designated Nigerian ports before proceeding to the US.
The restriction, which took effect on June 25, 2014, subjected affected vessels to additional security measures and enhanced scrutiny before they could enter US waters.
The US decision followed four assessments of Nigeria’s maritime security framework and port facilities conducted between March 2024 and April 2026. The assessments recorded improvements in Nigeria’s implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code and overall port security.
US Hails Nigeria’s Maritime Reforms
In a letter to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the US Government congratulated Nigeria on the development, describing it as evidence of sustained efforts to improve port security and anti-terrorism compliance.
The US also reaffirmed its commitment to its maritime and economic partnership with Nigeria, expressing readiness to continue working with the country to promote secure and efficient trade.
The lifting of the restriction is expected to bring relief to shipping operators that had faced additional security checks, documentation requirements and other measures under the Condition of Entry.
Oyetola Credits Tinubu
Reacting to the development, Oyetola attributed the milestone to President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s decision to make the marine and blue economy a key part of its economic transformation agenda.
The minister also credited the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, government agencies, port operators, terminal and facility operators, shipping companies and other stakeholders for their contributions to improving maritime security.
Oyetola had earlier described the US decision as a major milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector and an affirmation of the progress made in strengthening security across the country’s ports.
Restriction Had Lasted 12 Years
For more than a decade, vessels that called at designated Nigerian ports before heading to the United States were subjected to additional security requirements.
The measures increased operating and security costs for shipping companies and contributed to additional inspections, documentation and delays in vessel turnaround.
With the restriction now lifted, vessels travelling from Nigerian ports to the United States will no longer face the additional US Coast Guard security requirements imposed specifically under the Condition of Entry.
The Federal Government said the development could improve the competitiveness of Nigerian ports, reduce shipping-related costs, attract more international shipping activity and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global maritime industry.
It is also expected to boost trade and investment opportunities while improving the efficiency and reliability of shipping operations between Nigeria and the United States.
