Shettima unveils $115m upgraded APM Terminal at Onne
By Steve Agbota
Vice President Kashim Shettima has officially inaugurated a major $115 million upgrade at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Rivers State. The investment highlights APM Terminals’ dedication to Nigeria’s economic development and reaffirms its pivotal role as a leading trade hub in West Africa.
The inauguration ceremony, attended by notable dignitaries including Senator George Akume (represented by Professor Babatunde Bolaji Bernard), Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola (represented by Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola), Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, and the Executive Director Marine and Operations at NPA, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, marked a significant milestone in port infrastructure.
Vice President Shettima, represented by Musaddiq Mustapha, Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure, commended APM Terminals for its robust investment in WACT. He assured continued government support for creating an enabling environment for businesses, highlighting that the $115 million enhancement will boost port service delivery and attract more vessels. “Nigeria’s vast opportunities are being harnessed through APM Terminals’ investment, which signifies a strong commitment to advancing our ports, vital for global trade,” Shettima noted. He emphasised the government’s commitment to long-term collaboration with APM Terminals to foster a thriving business climate.
The upgrade reflects APM Terminals’ vision of raising standards of efficiency, reliability, and local excellence. Key improvements include an expansive yard, state-of-the-art equipment, and a new office complex.
New Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyre Gantries (RTG), and advanced Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE) are set to enhance operational efficiency and minimize turnaround times. The introduction of an innovative auto gate system and a modern data center will further optimize operations, while upgraded self-service kiosks will enhance customer interactions.
Also speaking, the Minister of Transport and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, praised APM Terminals’ commitment to modernising the port and promised ongoing support to reduce business costs. Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi highlighted that the upgrade will aid in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and combatting smuggling. Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of NPA, emphasised the project’s importance in bolstering Nigeria’s maritime strategy, expressing gratitude for APM Terminals’ substantial investment.
The expanded yard area, which has nearly doubled, enhances safety through optimized container stacking and advanced security measures, including CCTV systems. A groundbreaking 1MW solar power facility demonstrates APM Terminals’ commitment to sustainable operations.
Olaf Gelhausen, Chief Operating Officer of APM Terminals, described the $115 million investment as a testament to their belief in Nigeria’s economic potential. “Nigeria stands on the cusp of significant growth, and we are proud to be part of this transformation, elevating WACT to world-class standards and driving trade and prosperity across West Africa,” Gelhausen stated.
With its two key terminals in Lagos and Onne handling approximately half of Nigeria’s container traffic, APM Terminals is a leading force in West Africa. The company is also planning future investments exceeding $500 million, building on its long-term partnership with Nigeria and its commitment to community development and growth opportunities.
