US lifts 12-year entry restriction on ships from Nigeria

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

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the development, describing it as a major achievement in Nigeria’s efforts to improve maritime security, strengthen port competitiveness and boost the country’s reputation in the global maritime sector.

The Condition of Entry was introduced on June 25, 2014. Under the measure, vessels heading to the United States that had visited designated Nigerian ports among their previous five port calls were subjected to additional security checks and requirements before they could enter US waters.

The lifting of the restriction is expected to reduce some of the additional security burdens faced by vessels operating between Nigeria and the United States while supporting smoother maritime trade between both countries.

Oyetola said the development reflects the progress made by Nigeria in improving security standards at its ports and meeting international maritime requirements.

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 (NIMASA), 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 internationally accepted security standards.

Over the past two years, the USCG conducted four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s national maritime security framework and port facilities. The assessments were carried out in March and April 2024, March 2025 and April 2026.

According to the Minister, the assessments demonstrated significant progress in Nigeria’s maritime security performance and implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, ultimately leading to the lifting of the restriction.

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

“We are committed to sustaining this momentum and ensuring that Nigeria remains a safe, secure and competitive destination for international shipping.”

The Minister commended the NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and his team, saying the development demonstrated the impact of effective regulation, stakeholder collaboration and sustained investment in maritime security.

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