NIMASA Plans to Detain Vessels with Guards on Board

zoom The Nigerian Federal Government revealed intentions to detain any vessel entering the countrys territorial and coastal waters with security escorts on board. The detentions will be applicable to both armed and unarmed escorts, according to the announcement. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) issued the notice having detained three vessels, Lilac Victoria, UACC Eagle and Morgane, for having sailed into Nigeria with individuals linked to private security firms overseas offering training on the use of weapons. Various shipping companies have resorted to hiring of security agencies to protect their vessels from pirate-infested waters off Nigerian coast. The decision comes as February election campaign approaches in Nigeria which is expected to result in a rise of pirate attacks in the Gulf of Guinea so as to funnel ransom money into the campaign financing.