APM Terminals has reaffirmed its commitment to invest $500 million in Nigeria’s maritime sector during a high-level visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola in Abuja on Wednesday.
The delegation, led by Mr. Peter Wikstrom, Chief Financial Officer of APM Terminals, included Mr. Igor Van den Essen, President, Africa/Europe; Mr. Frederik Klinke, CEO, APM Terminals Nigeria; and Mr. Courage Obadagbonyi, CFO, APM Terminals Nigeria. The visit underscored the company’s continued confidence in Nigeria as a strategic investment destination in Africa.
Welcoming the delegation, Oyetola lauded APM Terminals for its high operational standards at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, noting that the company sets the benchmark for terminal operations in the country.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening draft levels at Lagos ports to a minimum of 16 metres, enabling the berthing of larger vessels, reducing turnaround time, and cutting shipping costs. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to fully modernize and automate the ports, including the deployment of scanners in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, to reduce reliance on manual cargo inspections.
“We are pleased with the quality of infrastructure that APM Terminals has delivered at Apapa Port. This fresh $500 million investment must align with our broader agenda to modernize the Western ports and enhance competitiveness. The Eastern ports will also receive necessary attention as we pursue a holistic upgrade of all Nigerian ports.”
“With our modernization efforts, we are confident that Nigerian ports will soon rank among the best in the world,” he said. “Our goal is to create a transparent, efficient, and globally competitive maritime environment.”
Expressing his optimism about Nigeria’s maritime potential, Chief Financial Officer of APM Terminals, Mr. Peter Wikstrom described his first visit to the country as an eye-opener.
In his words: “Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, presents a significant opportunity for long-term investment. Our renewed commitment will focus on expanding terminal capacity, enhancing cargo handling efficiency, and supporting the government’s drive to attract larger vessels.” Wikstrom said.
Mr. Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, praised the Minister’s reform agenda and expressed appreciation for the government’s investor-friendly policies.
He also announced an additional $10 million investment in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service for the acquisition and deployment of modern scanning equipment at Apapa Port. He said the scanners would significantly reduce cargo dwell time and eliminate delays associated with physical examinations.
“We are already seeing progress with the removal of procedural bottlenecks at the ports. We’re proud to be part of this transformation,” Klinke said.
“Our goal is to be the first terminal operator in Nigeria to fully deploy advanced scanning technology, streamlining clearance processes and boosting the efficiency of Nigeria’s trade and logistics ecosystem,” Klinke added.
The visit highlights growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector, driven by clear policy direction, regulatory reforms, and infrastructure development under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
