US Lifts 12-Year Entry Restrictions on Nigerian Vessels

Nigeria’s maritime sector has recorded a major breakthrough following the lifting of the 12-year Condition of Entry imposed by the United States Coast Guard on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the development as a strong affirmation of Nigeria’s progress in strengthening maritime security and implementing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code across its ports and maritime facilities.

Oyetola commended government agencies and industry stakeholders for their sustained collaboration, saying the achievement would further enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports and improve the country’s standing in the global maritime economy.

According to the minister, the lifting of the restriction is expected to improve vessel turnaround time and schedule reliability, while reducing operational costs for stakeholders in the maritime sector.

He said the development would also strengthen Nigeria’s position as a safe, secure and competitive destination for international shipping.