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.

Seplat Energy, one of Nigeria’s prominent energy companies, has set its sights on an ambitious drilling program for 2024, with plans to deliver 13 new oil and gas wells across its operated and non-operated assets.

This announcement comes as part of the company’s unaudited results for the first quarter ending March 31, 2024.

The breakdown of the new wells reveals a strategic focus, with 11 dedicated to oil production and 2 aimed at gas production.

Seplat Energy highlights the successful commencement of its drilling program by delivering one well, Ovhor21, in the first quarter of 2024.

Also, two wells, Okporhuru-9 and Sapele-37, which were initiated towards the end of 2023, have been completed.

Both Okporhuru-9 and Sapele-37 have yielded promising results. Okporhuru-9 has discovered multiple hydrocarbon-bearing intervals in deeper formations, while Sapele-37 encountered hydrocarbons in deeper reservoirs, along with proving up a northern extension to the Sapele field.

Seplat Energy is now conducting further technical analysis to assess the commercial potential of these discoveries and the wider implications for OML 41.

Looking ahead, Seplat Energy is committed to delivering the remaining 12 wells on the 2024 drilling plan.

Three wells, namely Ovhor-22, Sapele-38, and OBEN KIKB-02, are expected to be completed during the second quarter, with the aim of supporting production volumes later in the year.

Roger Brown, the Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Energy, expressed optimism about the discoveries, emphasizing the promising initial results and highlighting the quality of Nigeria’s geological resources.

He also acknowledged the progressive actions taken by President Tinubu and industry regulators to support the energy sector.

Furthermore, Seplat Energy has made strides in enhancing its operational efficiency and shareholder value.

The company has released the applicable exchange rate for determining its final and special dividend payout to shareholders who opt to receive their dividends in naira.

With an exchange rate of N1,309.88 per $1, shareholders can expect clarity and transparency in dividend payments.

Seplat Energy’s ambitious drilling program underscores its commitment to driving growth and innovation in Nigeria’s energy landscape while maintaining a strong focus on operational excellence and value creation for stakeholders.

APM Terminals is engaging in discussions with the government for a significant upgrade at its Apapa terminal.

Keith Svendsen, the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals, disclosed the company’s ambitious plans aimed at accommodating vessels with deep drafts and large ship-to-shore cranes.

The upgrade is part of APM Terminals’ long-term vision to bolster import and export opportunities in the country, create employment, and diversify local opportunities.

Svendsen emphasized the importance of fortifying existing port infrastructure, especially in Lagos, to manage increasing trade volumes effectively.

“While greenfield terminals like Lekki and later on Badagry would support economic growth in the long run, the more urgent requirement is in our view to upgrade the existing port infrastructure,” Svendsen commented.

The proposed upgrades seek to facilitate smoother operations, providing seamless connectivity through road, rail, and barge networks to mainline shipping.

Svendsen highlighted the unique position of the Apapa port in offering access to international markets for Nigerian importers and exporters, leveraging not only road but also rail and waterways, utilizing barges.

APM Terminals has been a pivotal player in Nigeria’s maritime sector for close to two decades. The company’s commitment to the nation’s economic growth is underscored by its proposed investment of over $500 million, subject to a long-term partnership with the government.

The Apapa terminal is a vital gateway for trade, handling a significant portion of Nigeria’s container traffic.

Furthermore, APM Terminals’ operations in Lagos and Onne collectively manage about half of the containers in Nigeria, demonstrating their pivotal role in the country’s logistics landscape.

The proposed upgrades signify APM Terminals’ dedication to supporting Nigeria’s economic reforms and attracting international investments.

The company has already invested over $600 million since its inception in Nigeria in 2006, directly employing approximately 2,500 Nigerians and indirectly contributing to employment for about 65,000 individuals.

“At APM Terminals, we believe strongly in the prospects for the Nigerian economy and the long-term opportunities that the current economic reforms and invitation for international investments will generate,” Svendsen affirmed.

As talks between APM Terminals and the government progress, stakeholders are optimistic about the positive impact of the proposed terminal upgrades on Nigeria’s maritime sector and overall economic development.