United States lifts 12-year security ban on Nigerian vessels

The United States has lifted a 12-year security restriction on Nigerian-flagged vessels calling at American ports. The decision follows Nigeria’s sustained improvements in port security and compliance with international anti-terrorism standards.

Frank W. Garcia Jr., the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, communicated the decision in a letter to Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola. The removal of the Condition of Entry (CoE) is expected to reduce security-related expenses and procedural requirements for shipping operators.

Key benefits of this development include improved vessel turnaround times and increased reliability for shipping schedules between the two nations. The move is anticipated to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports and strengthen maritime trade and economic partnerships between the United States and Nigeria.