STATUS OF FOREIGN VESSELS IN NIGERIA AND THE NEED FOR LEGISLATIVE REFORMS

Abstract

Offshore and onshore activities are vital to Nigeria’s economy and necessitate the regulation of vessels within its maritime zones. This is important for national security, economic development, and environmental protection. However, as more foreign vessels enter the Nigerian territorial sea, a number of legal and regulatory challenges have emerged, particularly concerning their status and the effects of their operations on the Nigerian maritime industry. This paper examines the legal framework governing the status of foreign vessels in Nigeria and reviews how international conventions and Nigerian laws work in tandem to regulate foreign vessels operating in Nigerian seas. The doctrinal research methodology is used to critically examine the legal provisions and identify areas of statutory conflict. The paper finds that there is non-compliance with outdated laws, as foreign vessels often disregard Nigeria’s maritime rules and regulations, causing significant economic and security problems. The paper recommends clearer and stronger enforcement mechanisms, better coordination among maritime agencies, and more consistent engagement with key stakeholders such as foreign shipowners and insurers. It concludes that if these issues are properly addressed, the system would function more effectively, and Nigeria’s blue economy would thrive significantly.