The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has advocated a review of the implementation of the International Ships and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code as part of efforts to enhance maritime security in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2024 National Conference of the Port Facility Security Officers Forum of Nigeria, the NPA’s Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, emphasized the need for a more robust approach to ensure the nation’s ports and shipping lanes remain secure, resilient, and aligned with the demands of a modern global maritime domain.
Dr. Dantsoho highlighted that revisiting the ISPS Code’s implementation would enable Nigeria to develop innovative and proactive solutions to emerging security challenges in the maritime industry. According to him, maritime security is a cornerstone for facilitating international trade, safeguarding national interests, and protecting the lives of seafarers, port workers, and the environment.
Reflecting on the evolution of maritime security, Dr. Dantsoho noted that, “the ISPS Code, which came into force in 2004, has been instrumental in establishing robust security measures to mitigate existing and potential threats. It marked a turning point for the maritime industry by addressing the evolving security challenges in the sector.”
He added that Nigeria’s adoption of the ISPS Code was a call to action to invest in advanced systems and frameworks that not only secure ports but also position the country as a safe and reliable maritime logistics hub in Africa.
Dr. Dantsoho recalled the global challenges faced during the early days of the ISPS Code’s implementation, particularly in 2020 when security threats such as terrorism, piracy, and illicit trafficking became increasingly complex and pervasive. “The Nigerian Ports Authority recognized early the importance of aligning with international standards. Implementing the ISPS Code with utmost seriousness became imperative, placing our ports at the center of transformative changes,” he stated.
Over the years, the NPA has significantly upgraded port facilities, following the concession of terminals and the adoption of the landlord model. Dr. Dantsoho highlighted the introduction of new security measures and technologies, alongside substantial investments in the training of security personnel, as key steps toward ensuring compliance and proactively addressing emerging threats.
While acknowledging the progress made, he stressed that these achievements result from the collective efforts of stakeholders, including federal and state agencies, port facility operators, security services, and international partners. “The synergy among these players has ensured that Nigeria’s maritime environment remains secure and that the country continues to be a trusted player in the global shipping business,” he remarked.
As the conference marked a significant milestone in maritime security discussions, Dr. Dantsoho reminded participants of the enduring importance of their work. “Our commitment to implementing the ISPS Code is not merely a regulatory obligation. It is a responsibility we owe to our citizens, our economy, and the global maritime community. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our maritime industry for generations to come.”
