The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has lifted the Condition of Entry (CoE) imposed on vessels arriving in the United States from Nigeria, bringing an end to a 12-year period of enhanced security measures for ships that had called at designated Nigerian ports.
The development was announced by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, who described the decision as a significant achievement for Nigeria’s maritime sector. He said the move reflects the country’s sustained efforts to strengthen maritime security, improve the competitiveness of its ports and meet international shipping standards.
The Condition of Entry was introduced on June 25, 2014. Under the measure, vessels bound for the United States that had visited designated Nigerian ports within their previous five port calls were subjected to additional security procedures and increased scrutiny before being allowed to enter U.S. waters.
According to Oyetola, the removal of the restriction followed several years of coordinated efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), working alongside other government institutions, port and terminal operators, shipping companies and industry stakeholders.
These efforts focused on strengthening Nigeria’s maritime-security systems, addressing identified deficiencies and ensuring that port facilities and operations complied with internationally recognised security requirements, particularly the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The USCG carried out four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s national maritime-security framework and port facilities during the past two years. The assessments took place in March and April 2024, March 2025 and April 2026.
The Minister said the assessments confirmed substantial improvements in Nigeria’s maritime-security performance and the implementation of the ISPS Code. The progress ultimately paved the way for the United States to withdraw the Condition of Entry.
Oyetola said the decision represents a strong endorsement of the reforms undertaken across Nigeria’s maritime sector and demonstrates the country’s growing capacity to provide a safe and secure environment for international shipping.
He also commended the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and his team for their contribution to the achievement, noting that the development highlights the importance of effective regulation, cooperation among stakeholders and continued investment in maritime security.
The lifting of the restriction is expected to strengthen confidence in Nigerian ports and enhance their appeal to international shipping operators. It also provides an important boost to Nigeria’s efforts to position its maritime sector as a secure, efficient and competitive gateway for global trade.
The Federal Government, Oyetola said, remains committed to sustaining the progress made and ensuring that Nigeria continues to meet international maritime-security standards while creating a more attractive environment for shipping and investment.