By Opeyemi Adelakun
The United States Coast Guard has lifted the 12-year Condition of Entry (CoE) imposed on vessels arriving in the United States after calling at Nigerian ports, in a major development for Nigeria’s maritime industry.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the development, describing it as a significant endorsement of Nigeria’s progress in maritime security and implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The restriction, which came into effect on June 25, 2014, subjected vessels that had called at designated Nigerian ports within their previous five port calls to additional security measures and enhanced scrutiny before entering US waters.
Oyetola said its removal followed sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), alongside other government agencies, port operators, terminal and facility operators and shipping companies.
According to the minister, the United States Coast Guard conducted four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s maritime security framework and port facilities between March 2024 and April 2026.
He said the assessments demonstrated significant improvement in Nigeria’s security performance and compliance with the ISPS Code, paving the way for the lifting of the restriction.
“The lifting of the Conditions 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.
The minister said the Federal Government would sustain efforts to strengthen maritime security and ensure that Nigerian ports remain safe, secure and competitive within the global shipping industry.
The removal of the CoE could also have wider commercial implications for Nigerian ports, as shipping operators may face fewer additional security procedures, inspections and documentation requirements when vessels move between Nigeria and the United States.
The government expects the development to support faster vessel turnaround, improve schedule reliability and reduce operational costs associated with delays and additional security measures.
It could also strengthen the attractiveness of Nigerian ports to international shipping lines, with potential implications for trade, investment, employment and port revenue.
Oyetola commended NIMASA Director-General, Dayo Mobereola, and other stakeholders for their role in securing the development.
He said the government would continue to invest in Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and maintain international standards to consolidate the gains.
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