Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the highly anticipated $115 million terminal upgrade at Onne Port in Rivers State, showcasing a significant milestone for Nigeria’s maritime and trade sectors. The investment in the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) underscores the critical role Onne Port plays in facilitating trade across Nigeria and the West African region. APM Terminals, the main proponent behind the project, emphasized that the upgrade would elevate operational efficiency and attract greater maritime traffic, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a trade hub.
During the inauguration, Shettima highlighted the government’s dedication to creating an enabling business environment. He emphasized that the substantial investment in Onne Port reflects Nigeria’s immense potential for growth in global trade. The Vice President assured stakeholders that the Federal Government would continue to collaborate with APM Terminals to enhance the port’s capacity and modernize infrastructure across the country.
Boosting Nigeria’s Maritime Industry Through Strategic Investments
The $115 million terminal upgrade at Onne Port is more than just a boost to physical infrastructure—it represents a bold step towards economic transformation. APM Terminals has implemented cutting-edge technologies, including new Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC), Rubber Tyre Gantries (RTG), and advanced Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE), which are expected to significantly reduce vessel turnaround time and enhance overall service delivery. These upgrades aim to make the port more competitive in attracting global shipping lines and increasing cargo traffic.
Dignitaries at the event, including representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, lauded the initiative. They emphasized how these investments would not only drive revenue generation for the nation but also improve safety and operational efficiency at the port.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Sustainable Development
The Onne Port upgrade involves far-reaching improvements, including expanded yard space and the installation of a 1MW solar power facility, which underscores APM Terminals’ commitment to sustainable development. With the yard nearly doubling in size, safety standards have been significantly improved through optimized container stacking and enhanced traffic management systems. The introduction of an auto gate system and advanced data center will further revolutionize port operations, setting a new standard for efficiency.
Additionally, new security measures such as state-of-the-art access control and CCTV systems have been integrated to create a safer environment for cargo and personnel, ensuring the facility meets global standards.
A Commitment to Future Growth and Prosperity
APM Terminals remains committed to further investments in Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure. The company has signaled plans for future investments exceeding $500 million, reinforcing its long-term vision for expanding the capacity of Nigeria’s ports and enhancing global trade connectivity. The terminal operator also expressed its desire to foster stronger ties with local communities, creating opportunities for employment and economic empowerment across the region.
In conclusion, the $115 million terminal upgrade at Onne Port represents a vital step in modernizing Nigeria’s maritime sector. This initiative not only enhances trade efficiency but also positions the country as a key player in West Africa’s economic landscape.
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