In a landmark development for Nigeria’s maritime industry, the management of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited (LPLEL), Lekki Freeport Terminal, and Lagos Free Zone has officially launched the services of three major global shipping alliances: COSCO, ONE (Ocean Network Express), and ZIM at the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
A New Era for Nigeria’s Trade and Maritime Capacity
This milestone was celebrated with the arrival of the E. A. Centaurus, a vessel measuring 277 meters in length and capable of carrying 7,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), marking the largest COSCO ship ever to dock in Nigeria. The event underscores the growing significance of Lekki Port as a major player in international trade and maritime logistics.
Strengthening Global Ties and Regional Growth
Christophe Cassang, CEO of Lekki Freeport Terminal, hailed the launch as a major step in the port’s ongoing growth and expansion. He pointed out that the partnership with top global shipping companies like COSCO, ONE, and ZIM strengthens Lekki Port’s international footprint and unlocks new business opportunities in Nigeria and across the West African region.
“We are positioning Lekki Freeport Terminal to be a leading maritime hub in West Africa,” said Cassang, emphasizing the terminal’s commitment to innovation, skilled operations, and cutting-edge technology.
A Transformative Milestone for Nigeria’s Maritime Industry
Du Ruogang, Managing Director of Lekki Port, called the launch a major achievement for Nigeria’s maritime future. He celebrated the arrival of the E. A. Centaurus as the beginning of bi-weekly calls from the COSCO, ONE, and ZIM consortium, marking a significant boost in cargo volumes and operational efficiency.
“This achievement marks the start of a new era for Lekki Port and Nigeria’s maritime industry. Our focus is on increasing cargo volume and business efficiency across the country. We are excited for what comes next,” Ruogang said.
Driving Foreign Investment and Economic Growth
Adesuwa Ladoja, CEO of Lagos Free Zone, also lauded the new services, highlighting the critical role of Lekki Port in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to the region. She pointed out that with four major shipping lines now operating at the port, businesses in the region have access to improved logistics and world-class infrastructure.
“The arrival of COSCO, ONE, and ZIM will significantly enhance trade activities, enabling businesses in the Lagos Free Zone to import raw materials and export finished goods globally,” Ladoja noted. She stressed that Lekki Port and Lagos Free Zone are poised to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic revitalization.
This development sets the stage for Nigeria to become a stronger player in global trade, with increased capacity to handle larger volumes of cargo, improve trade flows, and attract more investment into the maritime and logistics sectors.
