Terminal upgrade takes another step forward

Container freight station commissioned

NIGERIA: The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) operated by APM Terminals at the port of Onne has taken another step forward in its US$115 million upgrade project announced in 2020 that is due to be completed during the course of this year.

A ceremony to mark the commissioning of the new Container Freight Station (CFS) was held recently to celebrate this significant milestone that aims to see WACT positioned as the gateway to Eastern Nigeria and beyond.

The CFS acts as a central hub for various trade-related activities, including interaction with regulatory authorities and seamlessly connects businesses in Eastern Nigeria to the global marketplace and vice versa. Streamlined processes for import and export operations, reduce time and cost for customers.

Speaking during the ceremony, WACT Managing Director, Jeethu Jose said, “The CFS will serve as a one-stop-shop where all our customers can consolidate their exports. The facility will aid the Nigerian government's drive to promote export and forex which will be beneficial to the country and the economy.”

WACT was one of the first greenfield terminals to be built in Nigeria under a public, private partnership with the Nigerian government in 2003. Located in the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone near Port Harcourt, WACT caters to the greater Port Harcourt area and Eastern Nigeria, including the Nigeria Oil Industry. Since its inception, WACT has played a pivotal role in successfully connecting East, North, West Central Nigeria and River State to the world.

In 2020, WACT announced a further investment of USD115 million (Onne Terminal Upgrade Project) that included the acquisition of three additional Mobile Harbour Cranes, bringing the total in operation to five; 20 Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes; three Reach Stackers; 13 terminal trucks and trailers and two container empty handlers.

The new CFS not only strengthens WACT's capabilities but also contributes to the development of the region by creating new job opportunities and fostering economic activity in Nigeria. The facility ensures the sustainability of the supply chain by promoting efficient cargo handling practices. WACT remains committed to offering innovative solutions and exceptional services empowering Nigerian businesses to thrive in the global marketplace.

The upgrade also includes the deployment of reefer racks with a 600-plug capacity, as well as expansion of the current yard, new workshop, a new terminal auto gate, modernised offices, and state of the art technology. The final phase of the project is expected to be completed this year.