The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is updating the security guidelines for ship and port facility operations to improve safety across Nigerian ports. The agency now mandates that all ships submit Security-Related Pre-Arrival Information (SR-PAI) no later than 72 hours prior to reaching Nigerian waters.
Under these updated rules, vessels must report specific data, such as the ship’s name, its registry port, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) number, and the targeted port facility. Furthermore, ships and port operators must collaborate to manage security responsibilities. This includes regulating access to both vessels and port grounds, monitoring restricted zones, and maintaining constant surveillance of berthing areas.
The comprehensive protocol also governs the safe transport of cargo, the handling of ship provisions, the oversight of baggage, and the verification of individuals boarding ships. Constant communication between port facilities and vessels is strictly required. NIMASA has cautioned that providing inaccurate or insufficient information violates the Maritime (ISPS Code) Implementation Regulations of 2014. Consequences for non-compliance include possible entry denials, significant transit delays, rigorous security checks, or further legal penalties.
