Esther Salifu
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has ordered the closure of ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals in Lagos’ Ijegun-Egba area due to persistent non-compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
In a statement released on Thursday, Osagie Edward, Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, emphasized the agency’s role as the designated authority for implementing the ISPS Code in Nigeria.
“The enforcement action follows persistent non-compliance by the facilities with the provisions of the ISPS Code, despite several formal warnings,” Edward stated.
He further noted that the closures align with global best practices and are in accordance with Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code Implementation Regulations (2014), which mandates the closure of any facility that remains in violation for over three calendar months.
Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA, highlighted the agency’s commitment to maritime security.
“In wielding the big stick, we acted only as a last resort. Our primary goal is to enforce safety and security practices across Nigerian ports and jetties,” Mobereola said.
He added that the facilities would be reopened once all compliance requirements are satisfactorily met, acknowledging their important role in service delivery and trade facilitation.
Mobereola also stressed that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, is committed to enhancing sustainable trade facilitation for the maritime sector in a safe and conducive environment.
