Oyetola Hails Maritime Milestone as US Lifts 12-Year Entry Restriction on Nigerian Vessels
By Pan Afric Reporters
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has lifted the 12-year-old Condition of Entry (CoE) imposed on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria, in a development expected to boost the competitiveness and efficiency of the country’s maritime sector.
The development was announced by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, who attributed the achievement to sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and other stakeholders to strengthen maritime security and ensure compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The Condition of Entry had been imposed on Nigerian vessels arriving at US ports since June 2014, resulting in additional security requirements and costs for affected vessels and operators.
Oyetola commended the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, as well as maritime stakeholders for their contributions towards securing the lifting of the restriction.
The minister said the development would have significant positive implications for Nigeria’s maritime trade, including improved port competitiveness, faster vessel turnaround and greater reliability in shipping schedules.
According to him, the removal of the CoE is also expected to reduce additional security-related costs incurred by Nigerian vessels and strengthen the country’s standing within the global shipping community.
The development is particularly significant as Nigeria continues to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening maritime security, improving port efficiency and maximising the economic opportunities available under the Federal Government’s Blue Economy agenda.
The successful resolution of the long-standing restriction also underscores the importance of sustained compliance with international maritime security standards, particularly the ISPS Code, which provides a framework for enhancing the security of ships and port facilities.
Reacting to the development, Oyetola expressed optimism that the lifting of the restriction would contribute to a safer, more secure and competitive Nigerian maritime industry.
“This is a significant milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector,” the minister said, commending all agencies and stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the achievement.
The lifting of the USCG Condition of Entry is expected to further enhance confidence in Nigeria’s maritime security regime and improve the country’s integration into international shipping and trade networks.
