US Praises Nigeria for Lifting Maritime Security Restrictions

The United States Government commended Nigeria for its reforms in maritime security, resulting in the removal of a 12-year Condition of Entry (CoE) on vessels traveling from Nigeria to the United States. This commendation was conveyed by Frank W.

Garcia Jr., the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, in a letter dated August 26, 2026, addressed to Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. The lifting of the restriction is anticipated to reduce security-related requirements and costs for shipping operators, improve vessel turnaround times, and strengthen trade between the two countries.

Garcia noted that this achievement reflects Nigeria's commitment to enhancing port security and anti-terrorism compliance. Oyetola attributed this success to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with international maritime partners, highlighting NIMASA's role in this long-term partnership with the US Coast Guard.