Nigeria

Warri , Nigeria - Cash payment to ensure safe passage in Warri

Vessel approached by armed launch after departure from warri on Escravos river. Pilot negotiated with armed launch and explained cash payments of US$5,000 to US$17,000 to the launch was necessary to ensure safe passage in Warri. Such payments must be made for inward and outward passages. Port agents usually make sure the pilots carry enough cash as insufficient cash may lead to fatal consequences. Further there is tension and armed battles among rival groups for positions along the river.

The risk and payments should fall upon the charterers and we suggest owners who trade there or vessels on period charters include a clause into the charterparty. If our clients need any assistance in drafting such a clause, they are welcomed to contact us.