US Applauds Nigeria’s Maritime Reforms, Lifts 12-Year Vessel Restriction
The United States Government has commended Nigeria for its comprehensive maritime security reforms, officially lifting a 12-year Condition of Entry (CoE) restriction on Nigerian vessels calling at American ports. — LAGOS, Nigeria, Sept. 13, 2026
By By Aisha Cole | Shemnews · 13 Sept 2026 · 6 views
US Applauds Nigeria’s Maritime Reforms, Lifts 12-Year Vessel Restriction
The United States Government has commended Nigeria for its comprehensive maritime security reforms, officially lifting a 12-year Condition of Entry (CoE) restriction on Nigerian vessels calling at American ports. — LAGOS, Nigeria, Sept. 13, 2026
In a statement made available to Shemnews on Sunday, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, revealed that U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia formally congratulated Minister Adegboyega Oyetola in an official letter dated August 26. Garcia described the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision as tangible evidence of Nigeria’s sustained dedication to tightening port security, improving regulatory compliance, and enforcing stringent anti-terrorism protocols.
“Please allow me to join you in welcoming the U.S. Coast Guard’s decision,” Garcia noted, affirming that the United States values its maritime and economic partnership with Nigeria and looks forward to expanding secure, efficient, and mutually beneficial trade between both nations.
The removal of the 12-year sanction delivers several immediate operational and economic advantages:
* Lower Operating Costs: The policy change removes cumbersome security protocols and associated surcharges, significantly cutting expenses for vessels and cargo operations navigating between Nigeria and the United States.
* Faster Turnaround Times: With procedural requirements streamlined, shipping lines will benefit from faster vessel turnaround times and improved schedule reliability at international ports.
* Strengthened Port Competitiveness: Minister Oyetola noted that the move strengthens the competitiveness of Nigerian maritime gateways, positioning the nation’s marine and blue economy as a core driver of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic transformation agenda.
Oyetola also acknowledged the vital role played by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in spearheading years of direct technical collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard, emphasizing that the milestone underscores Nigeria's rapid progress in maritime security and international engagement. By Aisha Cole | Shemnews
More stories
