Maritime Law
Admiralty and shipping counsel for a trading nation, the contracts that move cargo, and the claims that arise when a voyage does not go to plan.
The problem clients bring us
Nigeria’s ports carry the weight of its trade, and maritime disputes move quickly: a vessel to be arrested before it sails, cargo damaged or short-landed, a charterparty read differently by owner and charterer, a regulator asking questions mid-voyage. Operators, shippers, freight forwarders and financiers come to us for counsel that understands both the commercial clock and the admiralty jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
Our approach
- Contracts drafted for the sea. Charterparties, bills of lading, and carriage and logistics agreements written with the casualty, not just the voyage, in mind.
- Urgent remedies, quickly. Vessel arrest and release, security and interim relief handled with the speed the tide demands.
- Cargo and casualty claims. Loss, damage, short-landing and general-average matters pursued or defended on the documents.
- Regulatory fluency. NIMASA, NPA and related requirements navigated so compliance is routine, not a crisis.
What to expect
- Rapid first response on time-critical matters, arrest, release and security.
- A written view of the merits and the forum before a claim is commenced.
- Fee clarity, with urgent work scoped and confirmed in writing.
- Coordination with surveyors, P&I clubs and correspondents where needed.
Frequently asked questions
Which court hears admiralty matters in Nigeria?
The Federal High Court has admiralty jurisdiction. Time limits and security requirements can be tight, so early advice, ideally before a vessel sails, materially improves your position.
Can you act on an urgent vessel arrest?
Yes. Arrest and release are time-critical; contact us as early as possible with the vessel details and the underlying claim, and we will advise on prospects and security immediately.
Tell us what you are facing.
Write briefly and plainly, and we will do the same. Every enquiry receives a considered reply within one business day.