Senate To Tackle Obstacles To Trade Facilitation At Terminals

The Senate Committee on Privatisation has offered its support to APM Terminals Apapa in tackling obstacles hindering efficient trade facilitation.

Led by Senator Aminu Tambuwal, the committee made this known when it members visited the terminal to carry out their oversight functions.

In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP Friday, the committee chairman, applauded the terminal operator for their Investment at the Lagos seaport.

“APM Terminals has made impactful contributions to port modernisation and investment in Nigeria. “We encourage you to continue enhancing your services while we in turn, promise to support you in tackling obstacles hindering trade, such as the numerous government agencies involved in inspecting cargo at the port,” the former governor of Sokoto State stated.

Also speaking during the visit, a member of the committee, Senator Sunday Katung, commended APM Terminals for consistently paying its taxes and other dues into the coffers of the government, noting that, “I saw your financials and I am very impressed.

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It is impressive and I would like more improvement, which is predicated on some of the things we have mentioned here,” the Senator said.

The lawmakers were accompanied on the visit by officials of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE).

Highlighting the transformative impact of the Federal Government’s 2006 port concession programme, which allowed private terminal operators to take over cargo handling operations at the port, Terminal manager, APM Terminals Apapa, Steen Knudsen said: “Since the concession programme, we have witnessed a significant transformation of the port, including increased efficiency, better equipment, and faster vessel turnaround times. This public-private partnership model has been a game-changer for Nigeria’s port system and the Nigerian economy.”

He also mentioned the terminal’s intention to invest in a comprehensive upgrade of infrastructure at the port.

General manager, Legal and Corporate Affairs of APM Terminals Nigeria, Chinenye Mirian Deinde, highlighted the company’s recent efforts to enhance the terminal’s capacity and support Nigeria’s economic diversification. She noted that APM Terminals Apapa recently expanded its yard capacity to accommodate the growing volume of export cargo, particularly non-oil exports.

“Since we commenced operations in 2006, APM Terminals has made substantial investments in infrastructure, container handling equipment, IT systems, manpower training, and capacity development,” Deinde said.

“These investments have resulted in significant improvements in port productivity, including zero waiting time for vessels and a doubling of container volumes. We are committed to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s economy through strategic investments and efficient service delivery,” Deinde added.

APM Terminals Apapa is the largest container terminal in Nigeria and a key player in the country’s maritime industry. Located in the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, it serves as a critical gateway for international trade and plays a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth with its intermodal connectivity options.