The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has lifted the 12-year Condition of Entry (CoE) imposed on vessels calling at Nigerian ports before proceeding to the United States, the Federal Government has announced.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed the development on Tuesday, describing it as a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen maritime security, improve port competitiveness, and enhance the country’s standing in the global shipping industry.
The Condition of Entry, which took effect on June 25, 2014, required vessels bound for the United States that had called at designated Nigerian ports within their previous five port calls to undergo additional security measures and enhanced scrutiny before entering US waters. The restriction was imposed after the USCG determined that most Nigerian ports did not maintain effective anti-terrorism measures under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The lifting of the CoE follows four comprehensive assessments of Nigeria’s national maritime security framework and port facilities conducted by the US Coast Guard between March 2024 and April 2026. The assessments took place on March 11–13, 2024; April 15–19, 2024; March 15–21, 2025; and April 13–17, 2026. The results demonstrated significant progress in Nigeria’s implementation of the ISPS Code and overall maritime security performance.
Oyetola said the decision affirms the progress made through sustained efforts by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), port and terminal operators, shipping companies, and other maritime stakeholders.
With the restriction removed, vessels calling at Nigerian ports before sailing to the United States will no longer be subject to the additional USCG security requirements previously imposed under the CoE programme.
The Minister noted that the development is expected to improve vessel turnaround times, enhance schedule reliability, reduce additional costs associated with security measures, inspections, documentation and entry-related delays, and make Nigerian ports more attractive to international shipping lines. These improvements are anticipated to stimulate increased shipping activity, trade, and investment.
Oyetola commended NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola and all stakeholders for their contributions to this significant achievement, emphasising that a safer, more secure and competitive Nigerian maritime sector remains a key priority.