The Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has acknowledged a proposed $600 million expansion plan by APM Terminals Apapa, signaling investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector and reform agenda.
The acknowledgement came during a familiarisation visit by the NSC Board to the APM Terminals Apapa facility on Thursday in Lagos.
The Chairman of the NSC Board, Dr Ibrahim Shema, said the council was committed to its statutory role as the nation’s port economic regulator and would continue promoting collaboration across the sector to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
He noted that strengthening partnerships between government and private operators remained critical to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
Shema said, “The way the organisations involved their stakeholders is notable. It shows that government is very serious about generating revenue through this sector, and there is no doubt that foreign investors are interested in committing even more resources.”
He added that the board was particularly encouraged by the terminal operator’s expansion plans, including the proposed $600 million investment.
The Executive Secretary, Dr Pius Akutah, said the council was intensifying oversight across the sector to ensure compliance, innovation, and improved service delivery.
“We are monitoring the various entities operating within the sector to assess their performance and determine how best to enhance it. Many operators are already aligning with our directives to modernise their facilities and adopt technology-driven processes,” he said.
Akutah lauded APM Terminals Apapa for its operations, noting that export cargo volumes had grown by about 30 per cent.
He noted that the increase in export signalled progress toward a more balanced trade structure for Nigeria, which had long been import-dependent.
He added that emerging export opportunities, particularly in manufacturing and petroleum products, present further growth potential under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“With new industrial capacity coming on stream, Nigeria has strong potential to expand its export base. The proposed $600 million investment by APM Terminals is timely and aligns with the federal government’s drive to attract foreign direct investment and modernise port infrastructure. At a time when government is actively seeking investment inflows, it is reassuring to see existing operators reinvesting and expanding their commitments,” he said.
Earlier, the Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Mr Kamal Alhraishat, said the terminal had embraced digital technology through electronic data interchange systems, replacing manual processes with automated platforms that improve efficiency and transparency in cargo handling.
He said the system allows seamless exchange of documents such as invoices, bills of lading, and cargo updates between stakeholders, significantly reducing delays and improving accuracy.
“This transition to electronic data interchange has transformed our operations. It has enhanced efficiency, improved transparency, and strengthened communication across the entire logistics chain,” he said.
Alhraishat reiterated the company’s commitment to continued investment in infrastructure and technology to support Nigeria’s trade growth and port competitiveness.
