Export volumes through Apapa Port increased by 25 percent from January to March 2024, according to information obtained by LEADERSHIP. Speaking in Lagos, Steen Knudsen, the Terminal Manager of APM Terminals Apapa, highlighted the importance of non-oil export cargo to the terminal’s operations. He noted that APM Terminals has seen a consistent rise in export volumes over the past four years.
The terminal reported that its non-oil export figures for the first half of 2024 reached 51,000 TEUs, marking a 25 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth compared to 47,000 TEUs for the same period in 2023.
“In the last four years, we’ve observed steady growth in non-oil exports,” Knudsen said. “In 2020, the export volume was 53,000 TEUs; it increased to 63,000 TEUs in 2021, and then to 71,000 TEUs in 2022. The most significant jump occurred in 2023, with export volumes reaching 94,000 TEUs, a 32 percent increase.”
To sustain this growth, Knudsen announced that the terminal will host its second exporters’ forum on September 19, aimed at supporting Nigeria’s non-oil export drive.
“The exporters’ forum allows us to collaborate with various exporting associations in addressing their challenges, ensuring smoother export flows into the port,” he explained. “Increased exports from Nigeria lower shipping costs, as vessels won’t return empty. We remain committed to partnering with customers and relevant government agencies to support Nigerian exporters.”
Launched in mid-2024, the APM Terminals Apapa exporters forum provides a platform for the terminal, its export clients, and shipping lines to address issues hindering export efficiency.
APM Terminals Apapa’s Head of Commercial, Kayode Daniels, reflected on the success of the first forum held in June, noting that feedback from exporters has helped streamline processes and improve export volumes. He emphasized the importance of timeliness, especially for agro-export products, which can deteriorate if stored too long in containers.
“The feedback we gather will help enhance operations and associated processes related to non-oil exports. Together, we can strengthen the port’s export procedures,” Daniels added.
Adetunji Igbaugba, Market and Commercial Intelligence Manager, echoed the terminal’s commitment to continuous improvement. “Listening to our customers is key to our growth. The insights from the June forum have led to significant improvements, and as we prepare for the next export season, we’re looking forward to further addressing challenges and providing better services to our valued customers,” he said.