The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria has donated solar power systems to two primary healthcare centres (PHCs) in its host communities – Onne and Ogu in Rivers State.

The management of WACT-APM Terminals said the installations aim to address the persistent challenge of power outages, enhance healthcare delivery in the communities and improve access for over 25,000 households in the areas.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, emphasised the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its alignment with community needs.

He said while the company’s business focuses on handling containers and facilitating trade, it also partners with communities and governments where it operates.

“This solar project is a pilot, and we anticipate scaling up such initiatives to create a broader impact. This initiative reflects our desire to give back and be seen as an integral part of the communities we serve,” Klinke said.

Klinke further highlighted health and education as the two primary pillars of APM Terminals’ global CSR strategy.

The Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Jeethu Jose, reiterated the company’s dedication to improving the lives of its host communities.

He said strengthening these primary healthcare centres will reduce the burden on secondary and tertiary facilities.

“Access to power is a basic necessity and we are committed to working closely with the community to ensure long-term growth, partnership, and progress,” Jose said. “

The WACT-APM Terminals Community Relations Manager, Justin Okwuofu, explained that the decision to implement solar power systems in the communities is driven by a need assessment conducted in Onne and Ogu.

According to him, the assessment revealed that a reliable power supply was the most urgent need for the health centres.

The Vice-Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Christians Tamunobereton-ari, commended the project, stating that the solar power installation was the most critical need for the facility.

With the solar projects, he said, nurses and doctors would be able to work more efficiently.

On behalf of the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, Dr Okachi Chukwuma praised WACT-APM Terminals for its alignment with the state government’s vision for primary healthcare.