By Peace Udugba

Nigeria Customs Clarifies Enforcement Action on Vessel Discharging PMS Without Clearance at Tin Can Island Port
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin Can Island Port Command, has clarified its enforcement action on the vessel MT NY Maria, which was allegedly found discharging Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) without the required Customs clearance at the MRS Terminal (Dantata Jetty), Tin Can Island Port.

In a press statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the Service said the clarification became necessary following what it described as misleading narratives surrounding the incident, reaffirming that its actions were lawful and in line with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

According to the statement, officers of the Boarding and Rummaging Unit boarded the vessel on Saturday, May 23, 2026, upon its arrival from the Dangote Refinery, to carry out routine documentation and compliance checks.

During the exercise, the vessel was found to be without complete documentation, particularly the mandatory Last Port Clearance required from the port of origin. The Service said the vessel’s agent was granted a two-day window to produce the outstanding document, while the ship was sealed and placed under Customs control pending compliance.

However, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Command received intelligence that the vessel had commenced discharge operations without obtaining Customs clearance and while still under seal.
Customs officers who mobilised to the terminal reportedly encountered resistance from security personnel at the facility but were eventually able to gain access and enforce compliance.

The Service stated that officers directed the ship master to halt the discharge immediately and report to the Enforcement Unit for questioning, adding that the vessel was subsequently resealed in line with standard procedures. It clarified that the ship master was not arrested but only invited to provide statements as part of ongoing investigations.

The NCS said its actions were backed by relevant provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, particularly sections relating to Customs control zones, inspection of goods, documentation, and enforcement powers within port environments.

It further explained that the alleged unauthorised discharge of PMS while under Customs seal constituted a violation of statutory procedures governing importation, unloading, and clearance of goods.

The Service stressed that it has legal authority to board, inspect, detain, and enforce compliance on vessels and cargo within Customs-controlled areas, while noting that investigations into the incident, including alleged obstruction of officers, are ongoing.

Reaffirming its commitment to lawful enforcement, the NCS said it remains dedicated to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring strict compliance with Nigeria’s fiscal, trade, and security regulations.

The Command urged the public to rely on verified official information and avoid spreading misleading narratives that could undermine regulatory institutions.