By Godwin Oritse
In a bid to strengthen security at Nigerian ports, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has commenced a review of security protocols governing interactions between ships and port facilities.
In a notice issued to all maritime security stakeholders, NIMASA stated that all vessels are required to submit their Security-Related Pre-Arrival Information (SR-PAI) at least 72 hours before entering Nigerian waters.
Part of the notice stated that the new protocol requires vessels to provide key details, including the vessel’s name, port of registry, International Maritime Organization (IMO) number, and the name of the port facility.
The notice also stated that the revised security protocol requires the ship and port facility to jointly ensure the effective performance of all security duties. It also mandates the monitoring of restricted areas to prevent unauthorised access, control of access to both the port facility and the vessel, and continuous surveillance of berthing areas and the surroundings of the ship.
The protocol further covers the secure handling of cargo, the delivery of ship’s stores, the management of unaccompanied baggage, control of the embarkation of persons and their personal effects, and the maintenance of effective security communication between the ship and the port facility at all times.
NIMASA, however, warned that the submission of false, misleading, or incomplete information in the declaration could constitute an offence under the Maritime (ISPS Code) Implementation Regulations, 2014, and other applicable Nigerian maritime laws.
The agency said such violations could result in delays, denial of port entry or departure clearance, enhanced security inspections, or referral for further enforcement action, without prejudice to any other legal liabilities that may arise.
