The Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria (MASPAN) has called for enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to improve operational efficiency, standardise security protocols, and address delays affecting private maritime security operations.
During a courtesy visit to Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command at NNS Beecroft, Lagos, MASPAN President Emmanuel Maiguwa led a delegation to present the association’s achievements and recommendations for strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security framework.
Maiguwa traced MASPAN’s origins to discussions held with naval officers during the 2013 Expanded Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security Conference. The association was formally registered in 2016 to advocate for members’ interests, promote professional standards, and support the Navy’s efforts in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.
MASPAN is structured into sector-specific forums—including private maritime security companies, logistics providers, training institutions, and consultants—allowing targeted issues to be addressed before escalation to the broader body.
Highlighting past interventions, Maiguwa said MASPAN had developed operational guidelines for private maritime companies to ensure compliance with Nigerian laws and international best practices, intervened in disputes over security vessel manning levels, and worked to stabilise charter rates for maritime security vessels to prevent safety compromises.
The MASPAN president stressed the need to address persistent delays in inspection and clearance of newly acquired security vessels, which he said had resulted in significant financial losses for operators. “Some companies have waited for up to four months before their vessels could be inspected and approved. These delays not only increase operational costs but also lead to loan restructuring that stretches repayment schedules by years,” he lamented.
To resolve the problem, he proposed allowing out-of-schedule inspections funded by operators, including pre-departure inspections before vessels leave their countries of origin. This, he said, would enable faster deployment once the vessels arrive in Nigeria.
Maiguwa also called for formal recognition of MASPAN’s industry-aligned operational standards, particularly the requirement for private maritime security companies to maintain 24-hour operational control rooms for effective monitoring and quicker incident response. He argued that such standards would level the playing field, enhance safety, and complement the Navy’s surveillance capabilities.
On compliance with naval personnel deployment protocols, Maiguwa acknowledged recent improvements by the Navy but urged sustained enforcement to prevent deviations that could undermine service quality and fairness in the industry.
The MASPAN leader emphasised that the association’s advocacy is designed to support the Navy’s objectives while bridging communication gaps with the international shipping community. “We have always aligned our position with the Navy’s operational stance, ensuring that stakeholders understand and comply with Nigeria’s maritime security framework,” he said.
In his response, the Flag Officer Commanding, NNS Beecroft, commended MASPAN for its structured approach to industry challenges and assured the association of the Navy’s readiness to work closely with stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime interests.
The meeting ended with both parties expressing commitment to continuous engagement to tackle sectoral bottlenecks, improve compliance, and enhance the safety of Nigeria’s waters.