The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has issued a formal clarification regarding enforcement actions taken on the vessel MT NY Maria, which was intercepted for allegedly discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without the required Customs clearance at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.
The Service said the clarification became necessary in response to what it described as misleading narratives surrounding the incident, reaffirming that its actions were fully backed by law under the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023 (Act No. 35).
Routine Boarding Revealed Documentation Gaps
According to the Command, on Saturday, 23 May 2026, officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel upon arrival from the Dangote Refinery to carry out standard documentation and compliance checks.
During the exercise, officials discovered that the vessel did not possess complete documentation, notably the mandatory Last Port Clearance required from its port of origin. In line with standard procedures, the vessel’s agent was granted a two-day window to provide the outstanding document.
The vessel was subsequently sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance.
Alleged Breach of Customs Seal
However, the Command stated that on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, intelligence reports indicated that the vessel had begun discharging PMS without obtaining the required Customs clearance and while still under an official Customs seal.
Responding to the development, officers were deployed to the terminal, where they reportedly encountered resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility. Despite the obstruction, Customs officers gained lawful access and ordered an immediate suspension of the discharge activity.
The ship master was directed to report to the Enforcement Unit to provide a formal statement regarding the incident. The vessel was thereafter resealed in accordance with established procedures.
The Service clarified that the ship master was not arrested but only invited for questioning as part of ongoing investigations.
Legal Basis for Enforcement Actions
The Nigeria Customs Service Tin Can Island Port Command emphasized that its actions were grounded in provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly Sections 30 to 35, which govern Customs control, inspection, documentation verification, and enforcement within designated Customs Control Zones.
The Command noted that under Section 31(2)(b), international seaports are designated Customs Control Zones, while Section 31(4) mandates that all imported goods must be properly unloaded, inspected, assessed, and cleared under Customs supervision.
It further stated that the alleged discharge of PMS by MT NY Maria without clearance and while under seal constituted violations of Sections 46 to 58, which cover reporting obligations, goods declaration, unloading procedures, and lawful release requirements.
Enforcement Powers and Ongoing Investigation
The Service reiterated that the Act empowers Customs officers to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance on vessels operating within Customs-controlled areas. It cited Sections 212, 222, 223, 225, and 226 as providing legal authority for inspection, surveillance, and detention where necessary.
It added that offences of this nature attract sanctions under Part XXXI of the Act, including seizure, forfeiture, and penalties for non-compliance with lawful directives.
The Command confirmed that investigations into the incident—including alleged obstruction of Customs officers—are ongoing in line with established administrative and legal procedures.
Commitment to Trade Facilitation and Compliance
Speaking through its Public Relations Officer, CSC OE Ivara CSC OE Ivara, the Command reaffirmed its commitment to balancing trade facilitation with strict enforcement of Nigeria’s fiscal and security laws.
The Service stressed that no vessel, operator, or individual is above the law within Nigeria’s port system, warning stakeholders to ensure full compliance with documentation and clearance procedures before engaging in cargo discharge operations.
The Command also reiterated that the Nigeria Customs Service Nigeria Customs Service will continue to carry out its statutory duties professionally, transparently, and without fear or favour.
Port Operations Context
The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of the Tin Can Island Port Command Tin Can Island Port Command, a key maritime gateway in Lagos, while the vessel reportedly arrived from the Dangote Refinery Dangote Refinery before proceeding to the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), where the alleged illegal discharge took place.
The Service urged the public to rely solely on verified official communications and avoid spreading unverified reports that may undermine regulatory enforcement and national economic security.
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