US Coast Guard Lifts Condition of Entry on Nigeria After 12 Years — Maersk, MSC, ONE, PIL React By Josh Akinde Lagos
International shipping giants operating Nigeria have welcomed the lifting of the 12-year Condition of Entry (COE) imposed by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) on vessels departing Nigerian ports for the United States. The USCG restriction, which had been in place since 2013, required vessels from Nigeria to implement additional security measures before entering US ports due to perceived gaps in port security compliance. Leading carriers including Maersk , Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), Pacific International Lines (PIL) and Ocean Network Express (ONE) have described the decision as a major boost for Nigeria’s maritime sector. Maersk said the lifting of the COE will strengthen Nigeria’s position in global shipping and improve vessel turnaround. ONE said the development is proof that sustained efforts by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in maritime security are yielding results. PIL noted that the action will enhance Nigeria’s image as a serious ma...