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The Lost Bill of Lading document is a crucial instrument in maritime trade when the original bill of lading, which serves as a document of title to goods, has been lost or misplaced. Under Nigerian jurisdiction, this document is particularly important as it provides a legal framework for the release of cargo without the original documentation, while protecting the interests of all parties involved. The document must comply with the Nigerian Merchant Shipping Act 2007 and related maritime legislation, requiring specific declarations, indemnities, and often a bank guarantee. When a bill of lading is lost, this document becomes essential for continuing trade operations while maintaining legal compliance and risk management. It includes detailed information about the shipment, parties involved, and comprehensive indemnification provisions to protect the carrier from potential claims arising from releasing cargo without the original bill of lading.

1. Letterhead and Date: Company letterhead of the requesting party and current date

2. Addressee Details: Full details of the shipping line/carrier, including company name, address, and reference numbers

3. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is regarding a lost bill of lading, including vessel name and voyage number

4. Lost Document Details: Specific details of the lost bill of lading including bill number, date of issue, and place of issue

5. Shipment Details: Complete cargo details including description, quantity, container numbers, and voyage information

6. Declaration of Loss: Formal declaration that the original bill of lading has been lost and circumstances of loss if known

7. Indemnity Statement: Standard indemnity clause protecting the carrier against claims arising from releasing cargo without original bill

8. Bank Guarantee Reference: Reference to any bank guarantee or security being provided

9. Request for Delivery: Formal request for the delivery of goods without presentation of original bill of lading

10. Undertaking: Commitment to return original bill if found and to bear any consequences of cargo release

11. Signing Authority: Details of authorized signatory with company stamp