US lifts security restrictions on ships from Nigeria after 12 years

The United States has lifted security restrictions on ships arriving from Nigeria after more than a decade, according to Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola. This decision is expected to reduce shipping costs and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports. The U.S. Coast Guard initiated the restrictions in June 2014, which required vessels recently calling at certain Nigerian ports to adhere to extra security measures and undergo stringent checks before entering U.S. waters.

The Coast Guard deemed Nigerian ports inadequate in anti-terrorism measures, citing issues in the country's legal framework, oversight by its maritime security authority, access control, and cargo handling procedures. Oyetola stated that the restrictions were lifted following improvements in the maritime security framework and adherence to the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

The elimination of these requirements will eliminate additional security obligations for vessels accessing Nigerian ports before heading to the United States, potentially improving turnaround times and making the ports more appealing to international shipping companies.