The Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has acknowledged a proposed $600 million expansion plan by APM Terminals Apapa, describing it as a strong signal of investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector and ongoing reform efforts.
The acknowledgement was made during a familiarisation visit by the NSC Board to the APM Terminals Apapa facility on Thursday in Lagos.
Chairman of the NSC Board, Dr Ibrahim Shema, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to its statutory role as the nation’s port economic regulator, noting that it would continue to promote collaboration across the sector to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
He emphasised that strengthening partnerships between government and private operators remained critical to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.
“The way the organisations involve their stakeholders is notable. It shows that government is serious about generating revenue through this sector, and there is no doubt that foreign investors are willing to commit more resources,” Shema said.
He added that the board was particularly encouraged by the terminal operator’s expansion plans, including the proposed $600 million investment.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of NSC, Dr Pius Akutah, said the council was intensifying oversight across the sector to ensure compliance, innovation, and improved service delivery.
“We are monitoring operators to assess their performance and determine how best to enhance it. Many are already aligning with our directives to modernise facilities and adopt technology-driven processes,” he said.
Akutah commended APM Terminals Apapa for its performance, noting that export cargo volumes had increased by about 30 per cent.
According to him, the growth in exports signals progress toward a more balanced trade structure for Nigeria, which has long been import-dependent.
He highlighted emerging export opportunities, particularly in manufacturing and petroleum products, 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,” Akutah said.
Earlier, the Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Mr Kamal Alhraishat, said the terminal had adopted digital technology through electronic data interchange systems, replacing manual processes with automated platforms to improve efficiency and transparency in cargo handling.
He explained that the system enables seamless exchange of documents such as invoices, bills of lading, and cargo updates among stakeholders, reducing delays and improving accuracy.
“This transition has transformed our operations, enhanced efficiency, improved transparency, and strengthened communication across the logistics chain,” Alhraishat said.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to continued investment in infrastructure and technology to support Nigeria’s trade growth and port competitiveness.
