Guide · For owners, operators and charterers
The eight stages of a port call in Nigeria: what happens, which documents are needed, and what Lighthouse reports to you at each point.
Port call checklist
Every document in this guide on one page.
Download PDFPhase 1 · Before arrival
You appoint Lighthouse as agent. We prepare a proforma disbursement account: an itemised estimate of port dues, pilotage, towage, agency fees and other charges, which you fund before arrival.
Vessel particulars, ETA, cargo details, purpose of call
You receive: the PDA
Phase 1 · Before arrival
We file the Ship Entry Notice with the Nigerian Ports Authority and submit the cargo manifest and stowage plan to Customs to obtain the vessel's rotation number.
Cargo manifest, stowage plan, IMO number, last ports of call
You receive: arrival checklist
Phase 1 · Before arrival
We declare the vessel at the port's berthing meeting, secure the Port Manager's approval and book the vessel's movement.
Updated ETA and draft
You receive: berth confirmation
Phase 2 · In port
With the provisional bill paid, pilotage and towage bring the vessel safely alongside. Tankers also require naval clearance.
Provisional bill and receipt, master's declaration, pilotage chit
You receive: all-fast report
Phase 2 · In port
Boarding agencies clear the vessel. We provide each with the master's lists and certificates and accompany Customs officers on board.
Crew list, nil lists, port of call list, ISPS certificate
You receive: clearance confirmed
Phase 2 · In port
Cargo is worked with the terminal and stevedores, while we handle crew changes, provisions, spares and any other husbandry needs.
Discharge and loading lists, landing tally records
You receive: daily status report
Phase 3 · Departure
We obtain NIMASA sailing clearance, settle outstanding port charges and book outward pilotage.
NIMASA clearance, settled NPA bills
You receive: sailing report
Phase 3 · Departure
We issue the final disbursement account, reconciled line by line against the PDA, with receipts for every charge and any balance refunded or invoiced.
You receive: the FDA
Ready when you are
This guide is for general information. Requirements can change; confirm with our desk before arrival.
