Onne Multipurpose Terminal Welcomes Largest Container Ship to Eastern Port

The Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) recently played host to the largest container ship ever to conduct full operations at an eastern port.

The container vessel, named Kota Cempaka and owned by Pacific International Lines (PIL), measures an impressive 300 meters in length and boasts the capacity to carry 6,600 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers.

During its maiden call at the Onne Port in April 2024, the Kota Cempaka undertook the loading and discharging of over 2,000 containers, handling a mix of Nigerian imports and exports.

This achievement underscores the terminal’s capability to accommodate large-scale vessels, marking a significant advancement for both the Onne Multipurpose Terminal and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

James Stewart, the Chief Operations Officer of Onne Multipurpose Terminal, expressed pride in the successful berthing and operation of the Kota Cempaka at Onne Port.

He highlighted the trust placed by PIL in OMT’s handling capabilities, emphasizing the global trend of shipping lines deploying larger vessels to enhance efficiency and reduce transportation costs for Nigerian traders.

Jacob Gulmann, the Managing Director of OMT, acknowledged the collaborative efforts between OMT and the NPA to prepare for the influx of larger vessels.

He particularly commended the NPA’s initiatives to ensure adequate water depth at the port, a critical factor in accommodating the new generation of vessels.

Situated within the Onne Port Complex in Rivers State, OMT commenced operations in 2021 as a container terminal operator equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

With 750 meters of deep-water berths, a water depth of 12 meters, and modern handling equipment, including mobile harbor cranes and terminal trucks, OMT stands as a vital player in Nigeria’s logistics sector.

The terminal’s utilization of advanced IT systems from Navis Terminal Operating System and SAP enables seamless cargo handling across various categories.

OMT’s commitment to efficiency and innovation reflects its dedication to supporting Nigeria’s maritime trade and economic growth.