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The United States has lifted the security restrictions imposed on vessels originating from Nigeria after more than a decade.
According to an announcement by the Nigerian Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the measure is expected to reduce shipping costs and boost the competitiveness of the African country's ports.
The Conditions of Entry (CoE) were restrictions imposed by the U.S. Coast Guard in June 2014.
The regulations required that vessels bound for the U.S. that had previously called at Nigerian territory comply with strict protection protocols and undergo enhanced inspections before entering U.S. territorial waters.
At the time, the U.S. Coast Guard stated that Nigerian terminals did not maintain effective anti-terrorism measures, citing deficiencies in the country's legal framework, the oversight of the designated maritime authority, and procedures for access control and cargo handling.
Oyetola explained that the lifting of the restrictions is a response to the improvements implemented in maritime security infrastructure and compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
With this measure, vessels calling at Nigeria before sailing to the United States will no longer be subject to the additional requirements outlined in that program.
Oyetola affirmed that the measure will help streamline vessel turnaround times, improve route punctuality, and increase the attractiveness of Nigerian ports for international shipping companies.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency noted that the U.S. Coast Guard conducted four evaluations of the country's port facilities and security systems between March 2024 and April 2026.
Various industry stakeholders had long argued that these restrictions increased operational costs due to additional inspections, documentary requirements, and protection protocols, while also causing delays, more expensive freight, and an increase in insurance premiums.
