NIMASA Shuts Down ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals Over ISPS Code Violations


The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) In a decisive move to reinforce maritime security has ordered the shutdown of ShellPlux and TMDK Terminals, both located in the Ijegun-Egba area of Lagos. The action comes after prolonged non-compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, despite repeated warnings.

As Nigeria’s designated authority for ISPS Code implementation, NIMASA acted under Section 79(f) of the ISPS Code Implementation Regulations (2014), which mandates the closure of any port facility that fails to comply for over three months.

Speaking on the enforcement, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, stressed the agency's commitment to upholding international maritime security standards:

“We have exercised this measure only as a last resort. Our foremost priority is to uphold safety and security standards across all Nigerian ports and jetties.”


He emphasized that maintaining high security standards is especially critical as Nigeria works with the United States Coast Guard to remove existing restrictions (conditions of entry) on vessels coming from the country.

Dr. Mobereola confirmed that both ShellPlux and TMDK terminals will be allowed to resume operations once they fully align with ISPS Code requirements. He acknowledged the importance of these terminals in maritime logistics and trade facilitation but stressed that compliance is non-negotiable.

The enforcement action also reflects the support of the Honorable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who continues to champion sustainable and secure maritime trade.


The ISPS Code, developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an amendment to the SOLAS Convention, is a globally recognized standard aimed at enhancing the security of ships and port facilities engaged in international trade. Full compliance is critical not just for operational continuity, but also for maintaining global trust in Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.


NIMASA’s shutdown of both terminals will serve as a strong signal to other port facility operators: security cannot be compromised. As Nigeria pushes for a more secure and efficient maritime sector, full adherence to the ISPS Code is not just a requirement it’s a responsibility. 

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