*NIMASA Pledges Full Compliance with Global Standards
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has lauded Nigeria’s sustained efforts to upgrade its port security architecture in line with international standards.
A USCG delegation, led by Bryan Ullmer, Chief of International Port Security Operations, conducted a five-day assessment of key Lagos port facilities, including Rano, PTML, Five Star Logistics Terminal, Standard Flour Mill, and NNPC Jetty. The mission focused on evaluating compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
During a visit to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) headquarters, Ullmer commended Nigeria’s progress, noting that the longstanding partnership between both countries has delivered tangible improvements.
“We have maintained a longstanding partnership with Nigeria dating back to the PICOMSS era, and what we are seeing today reflects measurable progress in port security compliance. While there is still work to be done, the improvements across the facilities visited are significant, and we remain committed to deepening collaboration with NIMASA to achieve full alignment with international maritime security standards,” Ullmer stated.
NIMASA’s Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustaining momentum and closing identified gaps.
“NIMASA remains fully committed to working closely with the United States Coast Guard to strengthen Nigeria’s port security architecture. We recognize that while notable progress has been made, more effort is required, and we will continue to engage proactively to ensure the complete removal of the Condition of Entry on Nigerian-bound vessels,” he said.
Mobereola emphasized that under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, NIMASA is intensifying compliance efforts across all port facilities. He noted that achieving full compliance will not only enhance Nigeria’s global maritime reputation but also unlock greater trade and investment opportunities.
This collaboration between NIMASA and the USCG forms part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to align its maritime security framework with international standards, strengthening the country’s competitiveness in global shipping and port operations.