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By Steve Agbota
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the weekend, announced that Africa Global Logistics’ (AGL) operations in Nigeria will create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, while also contributing substantially to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He made the declaration at the official unveiling of AGL, formerly known as Bolloré Africa Logistics, in Lagos.
He emphasised that AGL’s presence will revolutionise the logistics sector and enhance efficiency across the country.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, highlighted AGL’s role in facilitating trade, enhancing competitiveness, and providing seamless connections between businesses and consumers, as well as between rural and urban areas. This, he noted, will foster economic growth throughout Nigeria and Africa.
Expressing confidence in AGL’s rebranding and entry into Nigeria, Sanwo-Olu stated that these developments will redefine the logistics landscape, delivering unparalleled services that drive economic growth and development. He reiterated the state’s commitment to transforming its business environment through strategic investments and policy reforms, such as the Lekki Deep Seaport project, poised to become one of West Africa’s largest ports.
Etienne Rocher, the Country Managing Director of AGL Nigeria, in his welcome address, described the brand’s unveiling as a new era of commitment to Nigeria’s growth, with a strong focus on elevating logistics standards and driving economic evolution. Rocher noted that the rebranding represents a pivotal step in strengthening AGL’s presence on the continent and harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s dynamic logistics sector.
Stanislas de Saint Louvent, CEO Maritime Services and Chief Investment Officer of AGL, emphasized the company’s alignment with the MSC Group’s values of humility, passion, agility, and solidarity. He highlighted AGL’s century-long expertise as a leading multimodal logistics operator in Africa, committed to contributing substantially to the continent’s transformation. AGL aims to enhance logistics supply chain continuity across Africa and support the development of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which is crucial for the continent’s progress.
De Saint Louvent also mentioned that AGL, as part of the MSC Group, benefits from a robust global logistics network, enabling improved services in port terminals, expanded territorial solutions, and investment in the professional development of its 23,000-strong workforce across Africa. AGL focuses on nurturing local talent and promoting diversity through specialized training programs, addressing demographic challenges, and advancing digital transformation.
Sade Akanni-Shelle, CEO of Africa Global Logistics & Transport Nigeria, affirmed AGL’s evolution with Nigeria’s development and its continued commitment to the country’s potential. She highlighted the company’s investment in customer solutions and adaptability to geopolitical and macroeconomic changes. The unveiling of the new AGL brand, she said, underscores the company’s dedication to Africa’s development. Akanni-Shelle introduced four key strategic pillars: digitalization, energy transition, intra-African trade, and investment in local talent, marking the beginning of a transformative journey in Nigeria.
