US Lifts 12-Year Entry Restriction on Nigerian Vessels

US lifts a 12-year restriction on Nigerian vessels after improved maritime security assessments and compliance with international standards.

Damilare Adebayo · August 19, 2026 · 41

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has lifted the Condition of Entry (CoE) imposed on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria, ending a 12-year period of enhanced security requirements for ships that had called at Nigerian ports.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, announced the development, describing it as a major milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The restriction, introduced on June 25, 2014, required vessels heading to the United States after visiting designated Nigerian ports within their previous five port calls to undergo additional security checks before entering US waters.

Oyetola said the lifting of the restriction followed sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), in collaboration with other government agencies, port operators, shipping companies and maritime stakeholders.

According to the minister, the government had focused on strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security framework, addressing identified deficiencies and ensuring that port facilities complied with international security standards.

The USCG conducted four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s national maritime security framework and port facilities over the past two years. The assessments took place in March and April 2024, March 2025 and April 2026.

Oyetola said the assessments recorded significant improvements in Nigeria’s maritime security performance and implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

He said the progress ultimately resulted in the removal of the Condition of Entry requirements.

“The lifting of the Condition of Entry is a major milestone for Nigeria’s maritime sector. It is a strong affirmation of the progress we have made in strengthening maritime security and implementing the ISPS Code across our ports and facilities,” Oyetola said.

He added that the government remained committed to sustaining the improvements and ensuring Nigeria becomes a safer and more competitive destination for international shipping.

The minister also commended NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and his team for their contribution to the achievement.

Oyetola said the development demonstrated the importance of effective regulation, collaboration among stakeholders and sustained investment in maritime security.