In a move to improve Nigeria’s shipping and logistics sector, the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT)-APM Terminals Nigeria has introduced a direct shipping service to Onne Port in Rivers State. The service, named Europe Afrique 4 (EURAF4), was inaugurated with the arrival of the container ship *MV LETO*, marking a milestone in Nigeria’s trade relations with Europe and Asia.
EURAF4 aims to provide a weekly direct shipping route to Onne Port, improving connectivity and reducing transit times for Nigerian importers and exporters. This new service is designed to streamline logistics, cut costs, and enhance supply chain efficiency, addressing the increasing demand for reliable and effective shipping solutions.
Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, lauded the launch as a testament to the confidence placed in WACT-APM Terminals and the Nigerian economy. He emphasized the critical role of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and other stakeholders in facilitating the service’s successful launch.
“This launch is a strong vote of confidence from CMA CGM in the world-class capabilities WACT-APM Terminals has developed over the years,” Klinke said. “We have invested over $115 million in upgrading the terminal, including Mobile Harbour Cranes, Rubber-Tired Gantry Cranes, an expanded yard, and cutting-edge IT infrastructure. We are committed to providing the highest level of service.”
Klinke further expressed confidence that the EURAF4 service would boost trade volumes in Eastern Nigeria, contributing to the region’s economic growth. The new service is expected to attract more shipping lines, which will increase capacity and improve Nigeria’s competitive edge in global trade.
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Fanick Atchai, Head of Operations at WACT-APM Terminals, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to excellent service, noting that the company’s state-of-the-art equipment and processes would reduce port stay, ensure safe operations, and provide top-quality cargo handling.
It is worth noting that the Managing Director of CMA CGM Nigeria, Hinelder Ferreira, also praised the collaboration of all stakeholders in the successful berthing of *MV LETO*. He emphasized that the EURAF4 service would enhance service quality, reduce transit times, and strengthen both import and export trade routes between Europe, Asia, and Onne.
Port Manager Raymond Abdulraham expressed pride in the achievement, noting, “The more vessels we have, the more revenue we generate for the country. The arrival of *MV LETO* is a proud moment for Onne Port, and we are delighted to receive her.”
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Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, represented by Assistant Comptroller Martin Okpokpo, also commended the expansion of shipping services at Onne Port, recognizing its importance in facilitating trade and boosting the Nigerian economy.
It bears mentioning that the launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Shippers Council, Nigeria Immigration Service, importers, exporters, and the freight forwarding community, all of whom celebrated the successful introduction of this vital new shipping service.
