By Alex Akao

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has shut down two prominent terminals in Lagos for allegedly violating the provisions of the Internal Ships
and Port Facilities Security (ISPS) code.

The Code is a comprehensive security framework established by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to enhance the security of Ships and ports facilities against threats like terrorism, piracy and smuggling activities.

Acting inline with its statutory obligation as the designated agency for the local administration of the international convention, NIMASA Thursday wielded the big stick by shutting down ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals, both located in the Ijegun-Egba area of Lagos.

In a statement by the management of the agency, the enforcement action follows persistent non-compliance by the facilities with the provisions of the ISPS Code, despite several formal warnings.

According to the agency, its action further aligns with global best practices and is 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.

Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized the Agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain.

According to him, “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.

“At a time when we are collaborating with the United States Coast Guard to lift the conditions of entry on vessels from Nigeria, we cannot afford lapses that jeopardize our progress.” he said.

Dr. Mobereola added that the facilities would be reopened once all compliance requirements are satisfactorily met, acknowledging their important role in service delivery and trade facilitation.

“Our Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola is committed to enhanced sustainable trade facilitation for the maritime sector in a safe and conducive environment” he declared.

The ISPS Code, an amendment to the SOLAS Convention, was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance maritime and port security, particularly for facilities engaged in international trade.

In maritime parlance, SOLAS Conversation is all about the international convention for
international treaty governing safety at sea.