The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), acting in its capacity as the Designated Authority, has successfully conducted its first nationwide International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Level 2 exercise across the country’s two major ports.
The exercise, held simultaneously at key port facilities, was carried out in collaboration with the National Port Authority (NPA) and other national security and emergency response institutions. It forms part of Liberia’s ongoing commitment to implementing the ISPS Code, which came into force on July 1, 2004, to enhance maritime security globally.
Delivering a statement on behalf of the Authority, Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessel Registration and Safety, Mr. John F. Harvey, said the exercise was designed to test the operational effectiveness of Port Facility Security Plans, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and improve command, control, communication, and response mechanisms in the face of maritime security threats.
The simulation involved a coordinated national security scenario that required port facilities to raise their security posture from MARSEC Level 1 to Level 2. In response, multiple agencies, including the Liberia National Police, Liberia Seaport Police, Liberia Immigration Service, Liberia Fire Service, the Ministry of Health Ambulance Service, and the Liberia Coast Guard deployed personnel and resources both on land and at sea.
Mr. Harvey emphasized that the exercise demonstrates Liberia’s firm commitment to upholding international maritime security standards, particularly in the context of emerging threats within the Gulf of Guinea. He noted that ensuring the safety and security of port facilities and vessels is a shared responsibility critical to sustaining global trade and economic stability.
The exercise also served to validate the readiness of port facility personnel and national enforcement agencies in effectively executing their respective security plans. Authorities described the overall performance as commendable, citing strong collaboration among participating institutions.
Looking ahead, the Liberia Maritime Authority plans to expand future exercises to include terminal operators and shipping lines, further strengthening the country’s maritime security architecture.
The Authority expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their active participation and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting regular exercises to ensure that security systems remain robust and responsive both within port facilities and in surrounding waters.
