Vice President Kashim Shettima officially inaugurated a significant USD 115 million upgrade at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Rivers State, on Wednesday.
This major investment reinforces APM Terminals’ commitment to Nigeria’s economic development and further establishes the terminal as a critical trade hub in West Africa.
The project highlights APM Terminals’ pivotal role in global trade and its contribution to creating opportunities for local communities across Nigeria and the broader West African region.
The inauguration was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, represented by his Senior Adviser (Technical), Professor Babatunde Bolaji Bernard. Other key attendees included the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, and Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Managing Director, was represented by the Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, alongside the Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, and Managing Director of the Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA), Alhaji Bamanga Usman Jada.
Representing Vice President Shettima, Musaddiq Mustapha, Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure (Office of the Vice President), applauded APM Terminals for its substantial investment in WACT. He reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for businesses. He emphasized that the $115 million upgrade would boost service delivery at the port, attracting more vessels to Onne and improving Nigeria’s position in global trade.
“Nigeria offers immense opportunities, and APM Terminals’ commitment to WACT underscores its dedication to developing ports that serve as critical links in global trade,” Mustapha stated. He added, “The Federal Government will continue to collaborate with APM Terminals to foster an environment where businesses can thrive and contribute to the growth of global trade.”
The comprehensive upgrade at WACT is a testament to APM Terminals’ drive to enhance efficiency, reliability, and local excellence. It includes a broad range of enhancements, such as significant yard expansion, acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment, and the construction of a modern office complex. The project will introduce new Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyre Gantries (RTG), and advanced Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE), all of which are expected to drastically reduce turnaround time. Additionally, an innovative auto gate system and a cutting-edge data center will be implemented, significantly improving operational efficiency. The upgraded self-service kiosks are designed to improve the overall customer experience.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, commended APM Terminals for its significant investment in WACT. He assured the audience that the Ministry would continue supporting terminal operators in modernizing the nation’s ports and reducing the cost of doing business.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, remarked that the upgrade would aid the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in boosting revenue generation, facilitating trade, and curbing the smuggling of illicit goods into the country.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, represented by Engr. Olalekan Badmus, Executive Director of Marine & Operations, highlighted the importance of the project. He noted, “This project exemplifies our commitment to ensuring that eastern ports like Onne take on a more strategic role in Nigeria’s maritime strategy, which will in turn improve national maritime traffic. We extend our deep appreciation to the management of West Africa Container Terminal for their substantial investment in this essential infrastructure. Their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector is commendable and stands as a beacon of foreign direct investment into our economy.”
The expanded yard space has nearly doubled, providing greater capacity and enhanced safety through optimized container stacking. This will reduce the risk of collisions and improve overall safety standards. The new access control systems and CCTV upgrades will also contribute to the security of both cargo and personnel. In addition, an updated traffic management plan will foster a safer operating environment. APM Terminals also unveiled a groundbreaking 1MW solar power generation facility, underscoring the company’s commitment to decarbonizing its operations.
Olaf Gelhausen, Chief Operating Officer of APM Terminals, spoke about the transformative impact of the upgrade.
“This USD 115 million investment demonstrates our confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential. As Africa’s largest economy and most populous country, Nigeria is poised for significant growth. We are proud to be part of this journey, transforming WACT into a world-class facility that is setting new standards for driving trade and prosperity across West Africa,” Gelhausen said.
He further noted that the project encapsulates APM Terminals’ vision of raising industry standards, enhancing capacity, redefining customer service, and strengthening partnerships with the Nigerian government to support global trade.
APM Terminals is a major player in Nigeria, with its two container terminals in Lagos and Onne handling roughly half of the country’s container throughput. WACT, in particular, is one of the top-performing terminals in West Africa, providing reliable, efficient, and secure services to its clients.
In line with its ongoing commitment to Nigeria, APM Terminals is in discussions with Nigerian authorities regarding future investments. The company has expressed its intent to invest over $500 million, with plans aimed at solidifying its long-term partnership with the country. In addition to operating highly efficient terminals, APM Terminals is committed to contributing to the development of local communities, thereby creating opportunities for growth and prosperity for Nigerians.
