NPA APM Terminals receives largest vessel with 7,000 containers to berth at Apapa

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) APM Terminals and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have received the largest container vessel to berth in Nigeria with Singaporean flag carrying 7,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

The vessel, christened, EA CENTAURUS and owned by COSCO Shipping, measures 272 metres in length, 43 metres in width, and with a 14.3-meter draft.

Speaking at APM Terminals Apapa where the vessel docked, NPA Port Manager of Lagos Port Complex, Adebowale Ibrahim, emphasised the significance of handling such a “gigantic vessel,” in Nigeria’s port and its importance in the trade sector.

Represented by Traffic Manager, Jimoh Anthony, Ibrahim said facilitating larger imports and exports is vital for Nigeria’s economic growth, while applauding APM Terminals and COSCO Shipping for achieving this new standard.

The Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Dr. Babatunde Olomu, pledged the NCS support in facilitating swift cargo processing.

He said this achievement highlights the NCS commitment to ensuring the rapid and efficient handling of larger shipments.Olomu said the service is dedicated to trade facilitation, which not only boosts revenue but also encourages more vessels of this scale to berth at the nation’s ports.

APMT Terminal Manager, Steen Knudsen, emphasised the economic implications of welcoming such a large vessel.

According to him, the arrival of EA CENTAURUS represents a turning point in the size and scale of vessels that Apapa can handle.

Knudsen said larger ships mean more efficient economies of scale, which can ultimately lower the cost of imports to Nigeria.

He said this milestone is a testament to Nigeria’s increasing trade capacity and APM Terminals’ commitment to supporting this growth.

Knudsen highlighted the operational advantages for both the port and its customers, adding that by consolidating more cargo onto a single vessel, the terminal is enhancing efficiency and lowering freight rates for importers.

“This is a direct benefit to Nigeria’s economy, as it reduces import costs and encourages more robust trade activity,” he stated.

The Managing Director of COSCO Shipping Lines Nigeria, Rex Wang, spoke on the strategic importance of the arrival of EA CENTAURUS, noting that it is the largest vessel the liner has handled in this region, underscoring the expansion of its services in West Africa.

Wang expressed confiCOSCO Shippingdence in the region’s resilience and potential for growth, adding that its expanded capacity in West Africa will bolster the liner’s market presence.

“we are optimistic about an economic rebound, supported by an increase in exports like minerals, sesame seeds, and cashews. We believe in the continued recovery and growth of West African trade,” he stated.