MASPAN Urges Nigerian Navy To Fast-Track Maritime Security Reforms

Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria — August 12, 2025: The Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria, MASPAN has called for enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to streamline operations, standardize security protocols, and eliminate costly delays affecting private maritime security firms.

During a courtesy visit to Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding, FOC Western Naval Command at NNS Beecroft, MASPAN President Emmanuel Maiguwa led a delegation to present the association’s achievements and propose reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s maritime security framework.

Maiguwa traced MASPAN’s origins to discussions held at the 2013 Expanded Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security Conference, noting its formal registration in 2016. He explained that the association serves as a unified platform for private maritime security companies, logistics providers, training institutions, and consultants, enabling sector-specific concerns to be addressed collectively.

Among MASPAN’s key interventions, Maiguwa highlighted the development of operational guidelines aligned with Nigerian laws and international standards, efforts to resolve disputes over vessel manning levels, and initiatives to stabilize charter rates to prevent safety compromises.

He raised concerns over persistent delays in inspecting and clearing newly acquired security vessels, which he said have led to severe financial losses for operators. 

“Some companies have waited up to four months for inspections, resulting in increased costs and extended loan repayment schedules,” Maiguwa said.

To address the issue, MASPAN proposed allowing operators to fund out-of-schedule inspections and conduct pre-departure checks before vessels leave their countries of origin—measures aimed at accelerating deployment upon arrival in Nigeria.

Maiguwa further urged the Navy to formally recognize MASPAN’s operational standards, including the requirement for private security firms to maintain 24-hour control rooms for real-time monitoring and rapid incident response. He emphasized that such standards would enhance safety, ensure fairness, and complement the Navy’s surveillance efforts.

While commending recent improvements in naval personnel deployment protocols, Maiguwa called for sustained enforcement to prevent lapses that could undermine service quality.

Rear Admiral Oamen responded by applauding MASPAN’s structured approach to industry challenges and reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to working closely with stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s maritime interests.

The meeting concluded with both parties pledging continued engagement to resolve sectoral bottlenecks, improve compliance, and bolster maritime safety across Nigerian waters.