The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has shut down two terminals; ShellPlux and TMDK, located in the Ijegun-Egba area of Lagos over persistent violations of international port security standards.
In a statement issued Thursday, NIMASA’s Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, said the terminals were closed for failing to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, despite multiple formal warnings.
The ISPS Code, part of the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) safety conventions, outlines security measures for port facilities involved in international trade. Edward said the action aligns with Section 79(f) of Nigeria’s ISPS Code Implementation Regulations (2014), which mandates closure of any non-compliant facility exceeding three months of violations.
Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized that the shutdown was a last resort to preserve Nigeria’s maritime reputation.
“Our priority remains enforcing safety and security across Nigerian ports and jetties. As we work with the U.S. Coast Guard to lift the conditions of entry on Nigerian vessels, we must ensure full compliance,” Mobereola said.
He added that the terminals will be reopened once they meet all security compliance requirements. Mobereola acknowledged the terminals’ contributions to trade facilitation but reiterated the government’s zero tolerance for lapses that could jeopardize national or international maritime safety.
The closure reflects the commitment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, led by Adegboyega Oyetola, to enhancing a secure and sustainable maritime trade environment.
