Location

Ima Oil Terminal (4°13'N., 7°23'E.), located about 14 miles SSE of the mouth of the Adoni River, consists of a Floating Production Storage and Offshore (FPSO) facility and an SBM. A submarine pipeline extends about 9 miles NW from the terminal to a production platform (Cliff Langley). The FPSO (Ailsa Craig) is moored in a depth of 25m. The terminal can handle vessels between 25,000 dwt and 150,000 dwt, with drafts up to 18m.

Pilotage is compulsory. Pilots, who act as mooring masters, can be contacted by VHF and board 2 miles seaward of the terminal or at the anchorage. Berthing is carried out only during daylight hours. Vessels may depart at any time.

Vessels should send their ETA to the terminal operator 72 hours, 48 hours, and 24 hours in advance. Vessels should then contact the terminal on VHF channel 72 prior to arrival.

A restricted area, with a radius of 2 miles, is centered on the terminal. Vessels must receive permission to enter this area.

All export tankers shall fly the Nigerian National flag during daylight while berthed at the terminal.

A designated anchorage area, with a radius of 1.5 miles, lies centered about 3 miles S of the terminal.

Caution.—It is reported (1986 and 1988) that discolored water and breaking seas were observed in an area lying about 17 miles S of the Ima Terminal. Caution is advised.