By Godwin Oritse

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest shipping line, has signed a 45-year concession agreement with Nigerdock to develop a dedicated container terminal at Snake Island Port in Lagos, in a move expected to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and cargo handling capacity.

The project, which will occupy 30 hectares within the port, will see MSC develop, operate and maintain the terminal.

According to Kevin Johnson-Azuara, Chief Marketing Officer of Nigerdock Free Zone Enterprises, the facility is scheduled for completion by 2028 and will feature a 910-metre quay, six Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes, two ship berths, three barge berths and a draft depth of up to 18 metres.

Commenting on the game-changing alliance, Nigerdock CEO, Maher Jarmakani, said: “We are thrilled to take this step forward in our partnership with MSC to develop a world-class container terminal within Snake Island Port.

“This gives the world’s leading shipping line a home in Nigeria and brings significant foreign direct investment into the country to accelerate growth in the maritime and logistics industry.”

MSC President, Diego Aponte said: “Completing this key phase in the development of Snake Island Container Terminal with Nigerdock and our trusted partners demonstrates MSC Group’s commitment to providing excellent service to our customers in Nigeria and throughout Africa. The new terminal will open up opportunities, enhance efficiency, and elevate Snake Island Port as a major global shipping center.

Together with our Group’s other longterm investments in Nigeria, it will generate many local jobs and significantly increase economic revenue and resilience.”

Snake Island Port is an 85-hectare port facility operated by Nigerdock. It is comprised of three terminals which have significantly boosted Lagos Port’s capacity and existing operations.