The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has shut down ShellPlux and TMDK port facilities in the Ijegun-Egba axis of Lagos State for repeatedly violating international maritime security standards.
The action was taken due to the facilities’ persistent failure to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, despite multiple warnings.
According to Edward Osagie, NIMASA’s Head of Public Relations, the decision aligns with global best practices and is in line with Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code Implementation Regulations (2014), which authorizes the closure of any facility found in violation for more than three months.
NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, explained that the closures were a necessary last resort to uphold maritime safety and security standards, especially as Nigeria seeks to restore global confidence in its port operations.
“As we continue collaborating with the United States Coast Guard to lift conditions of entry on vessels from Nigeria, we must not allow any lapse that could reverse our gains,” Mobereola said.
He noted that the affected facilities play a vital role in trade and logistics but would only be allowed to reopen once they fully meet the required compliance standards.
The ISPS Code, developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as part of the SOLAS Convention, sets international measures for port and ship security to safeguard global trade routes.
Dr. Mobereola reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to creating a secure and sustainable maritime environment, echoing the broader vision of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under Minister Adegboyega Oyetola.
