President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday inaugurated the fully automated and digitalised $1.5 billion new Lekki Deep Seaport in Lagos.
Investors King reports that the newly built Lekki Deep Seaport situated in Ibeju Lekki is scheduled for commercial operations before the end of March, 2023.
The commissioning was carried out by the president after it was ascertained that it is fit for operations as it had received the first container vessel which brought cargo to Apapa and Tin-Can Island Ports supervised by the CMA-CGM.
In his remarks, the Governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu explained that the new Lekki port became a reality as a result of the collaboration among the Federal Government, Lagos State government and the private sector stakeholders.
Describing the project as the biggest infrastructure in West Africa, Sanwo-Olu said the Seaport will provide job opportunities for thousands of people.
He appreciated the President for his commitment to the construction of the port which began during his tenure and was commissioned by him.
In his speech, the managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Mohammed Bello-Koko noted that the capacity of the new port will reduce the cost of doing business as bigger vessels and cargoes will be received.
With a depth of 16.5 metres, Bello-Koko stated that the port will do far better in operations than other Nigerian ports setting a pace for improvement in other Nigerian seaports.
He stated that the Nigerian Ports Authority will regulate the operations of the port, adding that preparations have been made for marine services to ensure safe berthing of vessels at the port.
His words, “we already have interest from a certain neighbouring African country that wants to move its cargoes from Lekki Port through Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano to the African country because the country has seen the possibility of smooth operations and efficiency at Lekki Port.
Also speaking, the executive secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Emmanuel Jime hinted that the port is fully automated and digitalised for delivery of quality services to customers.
Jime noted that the Shippers’ Council will monitor the new seaport to keep up efficiency and sustainability of good standard.