Allmode Advisory 062: Nigeria

The alert is the result of the concern expressed by the United States Embassy on the security situation at the nation’s seaports. A picture was circulated to the Nigerian Customs Service, which showed a suspected member of Boko Haram member outside the US embassy. Pictures of known Boko Haram members have been circulated to all ports and terminals.

According to the Nigerian Port Authority, all ports in Nigeria are operating under International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS code) level 1, which means that minimal security protection measures are being maintained. However, in the light of the security alert, it would be advisable that the ports should take the precautions of MARSEC level 2.

Following the security alert, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has begun the restriction of persons into its various commands and formations in Lagos.

The development has brought about an increase in the level of security checks at all access points into the ports.

Port Facility Security Officers have been asked to increase surveillance at their facilities and reduce the number of people entering their facility and terminal operators are to ensure that their dock workers are transported to and from their terminal.

This is causing long queues at port facilities, whilst checks are carried out.

The President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Alhaji Olayiwola Shittu, called on Nigerians to be security conscious and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and properties at the ports.