US lifts security restrictions on ships from Nigeria after 12 years

The United States has removed security restrictions on ships originating from Nigeria, following more than a decade of implementation, according to Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola. The decision is anticipated to lower shipping expenses and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports. The restrictions, referred to as Conditions of Entry (CoE), were instituted by the U.S. Coast Guard in June 2014.

These measures necessitated vessels approaching U.S. waters from specific Nigerian ports to adhere to extra security protocols and undergo heightened scrutiny prior to entering U.S. waters. The Coast Guard cited shortcomings in Nigeria's legal framework, oversight by its designated maritime security authority, access control, and cargo handling procedures as the reasons for imposing these restrictions.

Minister Oyetola stated that the decision to lift the restrictions was a result of advancements in the maritime security framework and adherence to the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. Immediate contact with U.S. authorities for comment was not possible. The elimination of these restrictions implies that vessels calling at Nigerian ports en route to the United States will no longer be subject to the additional security requirements mandated by the program.

Minister Oyetola revealed that this move would facilitate improved vessel turnaround times, enhance schedule reliability, and render Nigerian ports more appealing to international shipping lines. The U.S. Coast Guard carried out four assessments of Nigeria's maritime security systems and port facilities between March 2024 and April 2026, as per the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency.

Industry stakeholders have consistently argued that the restrictions raised operational costs through supplementary inspections, documentation requirements, and security procedures, leading to delays, higher freight rates, and increased insurance costs.