APM Terminals Apapa concluded 2024 with a strong financial performance, driven by significant growth in container volumes and improved operational efficiency.
The terminal, which is a key player in Nigeria’s port sector, exceeded its financial targets, reporting a 13% rise in imports and a 10% increase in exports.
As an independent division of A.P. Moller-Maersk, APM Terminals operates in 60 locations across 33 countries and handled over 23.2 million container moves with more than 27,000 vessel calls in 2024 alone.
The Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Steen Knudsen, highlighted the terminal’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic development, emphasizing its role in job creation and export expansion. He noted that safety improvements and infrastructure upgrades were key priorities during the year.
A major milestone in 2024 was the arrival of COSCO Shipping’s EA Centaurus, the largest vessel ever to dock in Lagos. Knudsen stated that vessel port stay was reduced by 14%, allowing shipping lines to optimize fuel use and increase cargo handling efficiency.
He added that the company has invested in new yard blocks and a dedicated Customs examination ground to enhance export capacity and improve import cargo clearance.
Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to long-term investments in Nigeria’s port infrastructure.
“We are in close dialogue with the government to drive further investments in Lagos Port. Nigeria is a crucial market, and we are dedicated to fostering economic growth and prosperity,” Klinke said.
With operations in Apapa, Kano and Onne, APM Terminals handles nearly half of Nigeria’s containerized trade and supports over 10,000 Nigerian families through direct and indirect employment.
Klinke also said the company’s recent $115 million investment in upgrading and expanding the West Africa Container Terminal in Onne, Rivers State, will further enhance Nigeria’s trade capacity.
“As a key driver of global trade, we remain focused on efficiency, safety and infrastructure development, ensuring that Nigeria’s port sector remains competitive on the global stage,” Klinke added.
With ongoing expansion projects and strategic investments, APM Terminals continues to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a major hub for international trade.
