NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE CLARIFIES LAWFUL ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS ON VESSEL DISCHARGING WITHOUT CUSTOMS CLEARANCE

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has clarified circumstances surrounding enforcement actions taken against the vessel MT NY Maria, following what it described as misleading narratives regarding the incident involving the discharge of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without requisite Customs clearance at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.

In a statement issued by the Command, the Service explained that the vessel was found discharging PMS without obtaining mandatory Customs authorisation, despite being placed under Customs seal pending submission of complete documentation as required under the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 (Act No. 35).

According to the statement, officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel on Saturday, 23 May 2026, upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery to carry out routine documentation and compliance procedures. During the inspection, it was discovered that the vessel lacked complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance from the port of origin.

The Service stated that in line with established procedures, the vessel’s agent was granted a two-day period to provide the outstanding document, while the vessel was lawfully sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance.

However, on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, Customs officers reportedly received intelligence indicating that the vessel had commenced discharge operations without obtaining the required Customs clearance and while still under official seal.

Upon arrival at the terminal, officers encountered resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility. Despite the obstruction, the officers gained lawful access to the premises and directed the ship master to immediately stop the unauthorised discharge operation and report to the Enforcement Unit to provide official statements concerning the incident. The vessel was subsequently resealed in accordance with extant procedures.

The Tin Can Island Port Command clarified that contrary to some reports, the ship master was not arrested but merely invited to make statements as part of an ongoing investigation.

The Service maintained that the actions of its officers were fully backed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly Sections 30 to 35, which relate to Customs controls, inspections, examination of goods, verification of documentation, and enforcement within Customs Control Zones.

It noted that Section 31(2)(b) designates international seaports as Customs Control Zones, while Section 31(4) mandates that imported goods must be unloaded, inspected, assessed, and cleared strictly under Customs supervision and authorisation.

According to the statement, the discharge of PMS by MT NY Maria without requisite clearance and while under Customs seal constituted a violation of Sections 46 to 58 of the Act, covering reporting obligations, goods declaration, presentation of goods, unloading procedures, and release of goods under Customs control.

The Service further explained that the Customs Act empowers officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance on vessels and cargoes operating within Customs-controlled areas. Relevant provisions under Sections 212, 222, 223, 225, and 226 grant officers legal authority to enter premises, inspect vessels, regulate boarding procedures, patrol Customs areas, and detain ships where violations are established or reasonably suspected.

The statement added that investigations into the incident, including acts of obstruction encountered by officers during the enforcement operation, are ongoing in line with legal and administrative procedures.

The Command reiterated that no vessel, terminal operator, shipping company, or individual is above the law, stressing that all stakeholders operating within Nigeria’s port environment must comply fully with documentation, clearance, and operational requirements before engaging in discharge or cargo-handling activities.

The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict compliance with national fiscal, trade, and security regulations. It also urged members of the public to rely on verified information from official channels and avoid spreading misleading narratives capable of undermining lawful enforcement actions and public confidence in regulatory institutions.

The statement was signed by Oscar Ivara, Chief Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, for the Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command.

Oscar Ivara

Chief Superintendent of Customs

Public Relations Officer

For Customs Area Controllers Tincan Island Port Command