A Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) notice has advised that Nigeria is stepping up its efforts against anti-corruption at ports and terminals.
Namely, MACN informed of a pre-arrival process that has been put in place for vessels calling at Nigerian ports and terminals to allow for port call progress to be monitored by a Port Standing Task Team (PSTT), along with an MACN Local Help Desk team in Nigeria.
This is in response to a new policy from the Nigerian government to ban ships and companies calling at Nigerian ports and terminals from offering gifts and other forms of facilitation payments to officials from the Port Health, Immigration, Customs, and other agencies involved in the boarding and inspection of vessels.
Any form of corrupt demand made towards a vessel’s Captain, the shipping company, or their respective appointed stakeholder(s) should be immediately reported to the Port Standing Task Team (PSTT) and MACN Local Help Desk who will provide timely advice on next steps.
Guidelines for vessels calling Nigerian ports and terminals
- All vessels are advised to send a Pre-Arrival Notification 72hrs prior to the vessel port/terminal call. This will allow for port call progress to be monitored by the PSTT and MACN Local HelpDesk team.
- When an incident is occurring/unfolding the Master/Company/Port Agent (any stakeholder appointed to assist the vessel) shall contact the PSTT and MACN Local HelpDesk numbers immediately.
- Reject and oppose any form of bribery and facilitation payment demand, and never initiate such actions.
- Offering officials general hospitality when onboard is acceptable, for example offering soft drinks or cigarettes (if applicable) to be consumed on board the vessel is acceptable. These items should not be taken off the vessel.
- Use all resources to de-escalate the situation – It is very important that the company uses, and documents, all relevant local resources.