By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening port security in line with global standards, as the United States Coast Guard (USCG) continues to provide technical support to enhance compliance with the International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
A USCG delegation led by the Chief of International Port Security Operations, Bryan Ullmer, recently concluded a five-day assessment visit to key port facilities in Lagos, including Rano, PTML, Five Star Logistics Terminal, Standard Flour Mill, and NNPC Jetty.
.The visit was aimed at evaluating the level of compliance of these facilities with the ISPS Code, a critical global framework for maritime security.
Speaking after the inspection tour, Ullmer commended Nigeria’s progress over the years, noting that the longstanding partnership between both countries has delivered measurable improvements in port security.
“We have maintained a longstanding partnership with Nigeria dating back to the PICOMSS era, and what we are seeing today reflects measurable progress in port security compliance. While there is still work to be done, the improvements across the facilities visited are significant,” he said.
L-R: Lieutenant Commander Eric Hatfield; International Port Security Liaison Officer; Deputy Director, International Ships and Ports Facility Security (ISPS) Code NIMASA; Mrs. Jane Gabriel-Ibeh; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA; Dr. Dayo Mobereola; Chief of International Port Security Operations, Mr. Bryan Ullmer; Executive Director, Operations NIMASA; Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi and Head, ISPS Unit of NIMASA, Mr. Isa Mudi after a visit to key port facilities in Lagos by the USCG team.
On his part, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola, reiterated the agency’s resolve to sustain the momentum and address identified gaps to meet international best practices.
“NIMASA remains fully committed to working closely with the United States Coast Guard to strengthen Nigeria’s port security architecture. While notable progress has been made, more effort is required, and we will continue to engage proactively,” he stated.
Com overeMobereola added that the agency, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, is intensifying efforts to ensure full complian Overemobereola port facilities.
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He noted that achieving full alignment with international maritime security standards would enhance Nigeria’s global maritime reputation and boost trade and investment opportunities.
The collaboration between NIMASA and the USCG is part of broader efforts to align Nigeria’s maritime security framework with international standards and improve the country’s competitiveness in global shipping and port operations.
