NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY (PILOTAGE DISTRICTS) ORDER
Act · Technology
An Order designates pilotage districts in Nigerian waters for compulsory marine pilot services. It targets vessel masters and shipping companies. This enhances navigational safety in busy port areas.
NIGERIAN PORTS AUTHORITY (PILOTAGE DISTRICTS) ORDER
What Is This Policy?
An Order designating the pilotage districts within Nigerian waters where the services of a licensed marine pilot are compulsory for vessels navigating into or out of port.
Who Does It Target?
Vessel masters and shipping companies Licensed marine pilots NPA harbour masters Vessels above prescribed tonnage entering Nigerian ports
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Protect navigational safety in congested port approaches and channels by requiring vessels above specified sizes to use compulsory pilotage services within designated districts.
Key Features
Designated Districts: Names each pilotage district covering approaches to major Nigerian ports. Compulsory Pilotage: All vessels above prescribed gross tonnage must take on a licensed pilot within designated districts. Pilot Boarding: Prescribes the position where pilots board inbound vessels. Exemptions: Small vessels and vessels with masters holding pilot exemption certificates may be exempt.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: All designated Nigerian pilotage districts Beneficiaries: Port safety; marine environment; shipping efficiency Funding: Pilotage dues
How to Access
Vessel masters must request pilot services in advance through port agents Pilots board at the designated pilot boarding ground Vessel masters retain command but must follow pilot's advice on navigation Application method: Arrange pilotage through your port agent or directly with the NPA Pilotage Department.
Important Terms
Operating without a pilot in a compulsory pilotage district is an offence Vessel master retains command and ultimate responsibility despite presence of pilot Pilot dues are payable in advance of services
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nigerianports.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) — Pilotage Department
Legal Framework
Enacted under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Operates under the Nigerian Ports Authority Act Cap N126 LFN 2004, the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Act 2007, the Customs and Excise Management Act, and SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) standards.