Ship Release in Nigeria | Abdul Muhammed Law Practice

ARTICLE

Published          July 30, 2025

Written by        Abdulateef Muhammed

How much to hire a lawyer to obtain release of ship detained in Nigeria?

Introduction

When a ship is detained in Nigerian waters due to law enforcement or military actions, the process of securing its release becomes a complex and intricate matter.

Navigating the murky legal waters in such cases requires experience to ensure the swift release of the vessel.

In this article, we delve into the costs associated with hiring a Nigerian lawyer to secure the release of a detained ship, shedding light on the various factors that influence the overall expenses."

Ship detention in Nigeria

Ship detentions by law enforcement in Nigeria can occur for various reasons, including regulatory non-compliance, safety concerns, or environmental issues.

Regardless of the cause, releasing a detained ship involves a thorough understanding of maritime laws, regulations and procedural requirements.

What are the cost components of hiring a Nigerian lawyer to secure the release of your ship?

When your ship is arrested and detained, treating the situation as urgent is paramount.

This can make the crucial difference between releasing the ship in three months or waiting for three years until it has turned into a wreck.

Now, let's delve directly into the fees and costs associated with this urgent matter.

Legal consultations

Consultations with a Nigerian maritime lawyer are crucial to assess the situation, understand the reasons behind the detention, and strategize the best course of action. These legal consultations often follow the free initial no obligation consultation.

The legal consultation will attract between 10 million Naira to 6 million Naira for exclusive face-to-face sessions spanning a few days. This sum will be netted off against the fees which itself cannot be fully appreciated until after these consultations.

Litigation, negotiation and administrative fees

In certain situations, multiple legal actions may be required to challenge the detention or resolve underlying disputes.

The overall expenditure includes court fees, filing fees and other associated litigation costs, all of which are charged to the client.

Additionally, maritime lawyers often participate in negotiations or mediations to expedite the release process.

Given the complexity and duration of these discussions, substantive fees are expected to be borne by the ship owner.

Furthermore, facilitating necessary paperwork, liaising with relevant authorities and managing administrative tasks contribute to the overall legal expenses."

What is the range of total fees and costs for hiring a Nigerian lawyer, etc.

The cost of hiring a Nigerian lawyer to secure the release of a detained ship can vary widely, contingent upon the specific circumstances of the case.

Drawing from our experience in assisting with over 10 ship releases in the last decade, legal fees typically range from 75 million Naira to 35 million Naira.

This range is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the matter, the lawyer's expertise and the duration of the proceedings.

Additionally, ship owners should anticipate miscellaneous or other costs amounting to 150 percent of the legal fees, and possibly more.

For ship owners or operators, it's crucial to engage in discussions with their chosen legal representative about fee structures, payment terms and potential additional costs. This proactive approach ensures transparency and helps avoid any surprises during the legal process.

Conclusion

Releasing a detained ship in Nigeria requires specialized maritime legal expertise and a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework.

While the fees and costs associated with hiring a Nigerian lawyer for this purpose can vary, investing in experienced legal representation is crucial to navigate the complexities and secure an obtain a favorable outcome for the vessel in question – in a timely manner.

Ship owners should approach the process with extreme urgency and a clear understanding of potential costs and engage in open communication with their legal counsel to streamline the release process.

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