APM Terminals Apapa reports a 25% rise in non-oil export

APM Terminals Apapa has reported a 25% rise in non-oil export throughput for the first half of 2024, reflecting its pivotal role in supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification. Courage Obadagbonyi, Chief Financial Officer, shared that the terminal handled 51,000 TEUs during this period, up from 47,000 TEUs in the first half of 2023. The increase is attributed to the terminal’s efforts to promote non-oil exports, a vital sector for job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and inflation control.

At the second Exporters Forum held in Lagos, Obadagbonyi emphasized the need for improved transport infrastructure, simpler export regulations, and high-quality goods to further boost non-oil exports. Chief Commercial Officer Caroline Aubert-Adewuyi also highlighted the terminal’s efforts to support exporters through expanded barge operations, enhanced logistics, and the introduction of new services such as a booking app and rail transport options.

Operations Head Riyaz Melekolangath noted efficiency improvements, including dedicated export lanes and extended gate access, which have reduced export container turnaround times. The forum, attended by industry stakeholders, provided an opportunity for exporters to share feedback and collaborate with the terminal’s management.

Jetson Nwankwo, Managing Director of Bueno Logistics Limited, praised APM Terminals’ commitment to using rail for cargo evacuation, highlighting the environmental benefits of reduced carbon emissions and suggesting that the terminal could earn carbon credits to offset expenses and lower handling charges.

The forum underscored the terminal’s crucial role in driving Nigeria’s non-oil export growth and fostering collaboration for the nation’s economic transformation.