Vice President Shettima Inaugurates $115 Million Upgrade at West Africa Container Terminal

Vice President Kashim Shettima officially inaugurated a $115 million upgrade project at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Rivers State, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s economic development.

The project, spearheaded by APM Terminals, highlights the company’s commitment to transforming Nigeria into a major trade hub in West Africa.

APM Terminals’ investment in WACT not only reinforces its pivotal role in global trade but also aims to boost economic opportunities across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

The comprehensive upgrade includes the expansion of the terminal yard, acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment, and the construction of a modern office complex. These improvements are expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of operations at the port.

The ceremony was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, represented by Professor Babatunde Bolaji Bernard; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, represented by Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola; Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi; and representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Nigerian Shippers’ Council.

Vice President Shettima, represented by Musaddiq Mustapha, Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure, praised APM Terminals for its substantial investment in the terminal.

He assured the company of the Federal Government’s ongoing support to create a conducive environment for business growth.

“This $115 million investment will not only enhance service delivery at WACT but also attract more vessels to Nigeria’s ports,” the Vice President noted. He emphasized Nigeria’s potential as a key player in global trade and expressed the government’s commitment to fostering long-term collaboration with APM Terminals.

The upgrade is set to revolutionize WACT’s operations with the introduction of advanced Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyre Gantries (RTG), and Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE), all designed to reduce turnaround times and improve efficiency.

Additionally, a new auto gate system and an advanced data center will streamline operations, while upgraded self-service kiosks are expected to enhance customer experience.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, also commended APM Terminals for their investment, highlighting the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that modernize Nigeria’s ports and reduce the cost of doing business.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that the WACT upgrade aligns with the Nigeria Customs Service’s efforts to increase revenue, facilitate trade, and prevent the smuggling of harmful goods into the country.

Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of NPA, represented by Engr. Olalekan Badmus, expressed gratitude to APM Terminals for their investment in Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

He emphasized that the project would enhance the role of eastern ports, such as Onne, in the nation’s maritime strategy.

The expanded yard space at WACT, nearly double its original size, not only increases capacity but also enhances safety through optimized container stacking. The terminal’s new Traffic Management plan, combined with cutting-edge access control and CCTV systems, ensures a secure environment for both cargo and personnel.

APM Terminals has also taken steps towards sustainability by installing a 1MW solar power generation facility, reflecting their commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Olaf Gelhausen, Chief Operating Officer of APM Terminals, described the $115 million investment as a testament to the company’s confidence in Nigeria’s economic future.

“As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria is poised for significant growth, and we are proud to play a role in this transformation,” he said. “This upgrade project is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about lifting standards and driving trade and prosperity across West Africa.”

APM Terminals, which operates two container terminals in Lagos and Onne, handles nearly half of Nigeria’s container traffic.

The company is in discussions with the Nigerian government and port authorities about future investments, with plans to invest over $500 million in the coming years. Beyond improving terminal efficiency, APM Terminals is dedicated to contributing to local community development and creating new growth opportunities for Nigerians.