NIMASA Shuts Down ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals Over ISPS Code Violations

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has officially sealed off the ShellPlux and TMDK terminals located in Ijegun-Egba, Lagos, following persistent breaches of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

The closures were announced Thursday by Osagie Edward, Head of Public Relations at NIMASA, and are in line with the agency’s authority as Nigeria’s designated enforcer of the ISPS Code, a global maritime security standard developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Despite repeated warnings and ample time for corrective measures, both terminals reportedly remained in violation for over three consecutive months. According to NIMASA:

“This enforcement action is in line with global maritime security standards and conforms with Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code Implementation Regulations, 2014,” Edward stated.

The ISPS Code, part of the SOLAS Convention, was designed to strengthen port and ship security, especially in facilities involved in international trade.

Commenting on the move, NIMASA Director General Dr. Dayo Mobereola emphasized that the closures were not punitive but protective:

“Our intervention is not punitive but necessary to protect Nigeria’s maritime assets,” Mobereola said. “As we work with the U.S. Coast Guard to raise Nigeria’s compliance status, we cannot overlook repeated lapses like these.”

He reassured stakeholders that both terminals' key players in cargo and petroleum logistics will be reopened once full compliance with ISPS standards is achieved.

Mobereola also echoed the position of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, affirming the government’s goal to maintain a safe, efficient, and internationally credible maritime sector.

“The goal is to create a secure and sustainable marine environment that supports international trade,” he added.