Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has sealed ShellPlux and TMDK terminals in the Ijegun-Egba area of Lagos due to persistent non-compliance with the ISPS Code regulations.
Oriental News Nigeria reports that the action follows several warnings and sustained breaches over a period exceeding three calendar months.
The NIMASA, which is the Authority responsible for enforcing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code in Nigeria, invoked Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code Implementation Regulations (2014) resulting in the shutdown. This action aligns with global best practices designed to maintain the highest levels of security across Nigerian maritime facilities.
The Director General (DG) of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized the Agency’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain:
“In wielding the big stick, we acted only as a last resort. Our primary goal remains the enforcement of safety and security practices across Nigerian ports and jetties. At a time when we are working closely with the United States Coast Guard to improve the conditions of vessel entry from Nigeria, we cannot afford lapses that undermine our progress.”
Dr. Mobereola further assured that the affected terminals would be allowed to reopen only after they fully meet all required compliance standards. He acknowledged the critical role ShellPlux and TMDK play in service delivery and trade facilitation within the maritime sector.
The Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, reaffirms the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable trade facilitation through a safe and secure maritime environment.
Established as part of the SOLAS Convention, the ISPS Code was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to strengthen maritime and port security worldwide, particularly for facilities engaged in international trade.
NIMASA remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests and ensuring compliance with international security standards.