From Idu Jude, Abuja
Foreign maritime operator APM Terminals has pledged a hefty $500 million to boost its port operations in Nigeria.
The group shared this during a visit to Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, in Abuja. Led by Chief Financial Officer Peter Wikstrom, the team included Igor Van den Essen, President for Africa/Europe; Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria; and Courage Obadagbonyi, CFO of APM Terminals Nigeria. They aim to keep Nigeria a top maritime player in Africa.
Minister Oyetola welcomed them and praised APM Terminals’ work. “We are pleased with the quality of infrastructure that APM Terminals has delivered at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa. The standard you have set should be the minimum benchmark for other terminal operators across the country,” he said.
“This fresh USD 500 million investment must align with our broader agenda to modernise the Western ports and enhance port competitiveness. The Eastern ports will also not be left behind; we are determined to ensure a holistic upgrade of all Nigerian ports.”
He highlighted plans to deepen Lagos ports to 16 metres for bigger ships, faster turnarounds, and lower costs. Oyetola also noted teamwork with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to add scanners and cut reliance on manual cargo checks.
“With our modernisation efforts, we are confident that Nigerian ports will soon rank among the best in the world. Our goal is to create a maritime environment that is efficient, transparent, and attractive to both local and international investors,” he added.
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