The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing port security in line with global standards, as the United States Coast Guard (USCG) continues to provide technical support to boost compliance with the International Ships and Ports Facility Security Code.
A USCG delegation led by the Chief of International Port Security Operations, Bryan Ullmer, recently concluded a five-day assessment visit to major port facilities in Lagos, including Rano Terminal, PTML, Five Star Logistics Terminal, Standard Flour Mill, and the NNPC Jetty. The exercise was aimed at evaluating the level of compliance of these facilities with ISPS Code requirements.
Speaking after the inspection tour, Ullmer commended Nigeria’s steady progress in port security, noting that the long-standing partnership between both countries has delivered measurable results.
“We have maintained a longstanding partnership with Nigeria dating back to the PICOMSS era, and what we are seeing today reflects measurable progress in port security compliance. While there is still work to be done, the improvements across the facilities visited are significant, and we remain committed to deepening collaboration with NIMASA to achieve full alignment with international maritime security standards,” he said.
On his part, the Director General of NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola, reiterated the agency’s resolve to sustain ongoing efforts and close identified gaps to meet global best practices.
“NIMASA remains fully committed to working closely with the United States Coast Guard to strengthen Nigeria’s port security architecture. We recognize that while notable progress has been made, more effort is required, and we will continue to engage proactively to ensure the complete removal of the Condition of Entry on Nigerian-bound vessels,” he stated.
Mobereola further stressed that the agency, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, is intensifying efforts to improve compliance across all port facilities. He noted that achieving full compliance would enhance Nigeria’s global maritime reputation while boosting trade and investment opportunities.
The sustained collaboration between NIMASA and the USCG is part of broader efforts to align Nigeria’s maritime security framework with international standards, thereby strengthening the country’s competitiveness in global shipping and port operations.
