The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has ordered the closure of two fuel-loading terminals in Lagos over continued violations of international maritime security protocols.
The affected facilities, ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals, both situated in the Ijegun-Egba area of the state, were sealed off following what authorities described as prolonged non-compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
According to a statement issued Thursday by NIMASA’s Head of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, the agency acted in line with its mandate as Nigeria’s designated authority for the enforcement of the ISPS Code. The security framework, introduced by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) under the SOLAS Convention, is designed to safeguard ships and port facilities, especially those involved in international trade.
Edward explained that both terminals had been formally warned on multiple occasions but failed to address identified security deficiencies. “This enforcement action follows persistent non-compliance by the facilities with the provisions of the ISPS Code,” he said.
He added that the decision aligns with global best practices and complies with Section 79(f) of the 2014 ISPS Code Implementation Regulations, which authorizes the closure of any facility found to be in breach for more than three consecutive months.
Commenting on the development, NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, stressed that the decision to shut the terminals was not taken lightly. “In wielding the big stick, we acted only as a last resort. Our primary goal remains the enforcement of internationally accepted safety and security standards across all Nigerian ports and jetties,” he said.
Dr. Mobereola also noted the broader implications of such lapses at a time when Nigeria is working closely with the United States Coast Guard to ease restrictions on vessels arriving from the country.
“We are at a crucial stage in strengthening global confidence in Nigeria’s maritime space. Any breach that undermines our collective efforts will be dealt with decisively,” he stated.
While acknowledging the strategic importance of both ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals in the country’s fuel distribution chain, the NIMASA chief said operations at the facilities would resume only after full compliance with the ISPS Code is verified.
He also reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to safe and secure maritime operations, adding that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, remains focused on fostering sustainable trade within a secure port environment.
