Friday, July 18, 2025, and it’s not all smooth sailing in Nigeria’s maritime world. TMDK Terminals Ltd. is in a battle of wills with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the stakes are high. The heart of the matter? A recent shutdown of their facility, prompted by alleged non-compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
But TMDK isn’t backing down without a fight. In a statement released on Thursday, the company fired back, vehemently denying the claims and demanding NIMASA lift the shutdown. They’re painting a picture of a facility proactively embracing security improvements, not ignoring regulations.
According to TMDK, the shutdown is a misstep, a mischaracterization of their commitment to safety. They insist they’ve been fully compliant and any minor hiccups were swiftly dealt with. The company is adamant that NIMASA never formally warned them they were in violation of the three-month window that could lead to such a drastic measure.
Adding a layer of intrigue, TMDK highlighted a significant investment in security upgrades over the past six months. Think state-of-the-art access control and enhanced surveillance – the works. What’s more, they claim they were actually preparing for a NIMASA re-inspection when the enforcement action hit. Talk about timing!
Why is this so critical? Well, TMDK’s terminal is a vital cog in the wheel of both domestic and regional supply chains. Its closure is already disrupting trade and logistics, causing ripples throughout the industry.
While the company prefers resolving this through back-channel conversations, TMDK also stated they felt compelled to defend their reputation and clarify any public misconceptions. They’re now urging NIMASA to take a fresh look at their facility, emphasizing their dedication to maritime security and calling for increased cooperation between stakeholders to ensure Nigeria remains in line with the global standards.
It’s a complex situation, but one thing is clear: TMDK Terminals is ready to fight to get back on the water, arguing they’re not just a business, but a partner in a safe and thriving Nigerian maritime sector. The ball is now firmly in NIMASA’s court, and all eyes are on how this maritime drama unfolds.
