The management of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited (LPLEL), the Lekki Free Terminal, and the Lagos Free Zone have announced the launch of services by the COSCO, ONE (Ocean Network Express), and ZIM alliance at the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
The creation of the COSCO Alliance was marked by the arrival of the E. A. Centaurus at the port last week. The vessel, measuring 277 meters in length and capable of handling 7,000 TEUs, is the largest COSCO ship to ever dock in Nigeria.
Christophe Cassang, CEO of the Lekki Free Terminal, stated that the launch was a crucial step in the growth and enhancement of the terminal’s capacities.
He explained that the terminal’s vision is to become a leading maritime hub in West Africa.
« Through strategic partnerships with global leaders in maritime transport such as COSCO, ONE, and ZIM, we are strengthening our international presence and opening new opportunities for trade and industry in Nigeria and the region… Our team is highly skilled, passionate about innovation, and supported by cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of the maritime transport industry and our clients, » said Cassang.
Local media reported on Tuesday that Du Ruogang, Managing Director of Lekki Port, called the launch a testament to the port’s commitment to Nigeria’s maritime future. He noted that the docking of the E. A. Centaurus inaugurated the bi-weekly calls of the COSCO, ONE, and ZIM consortium.
« This development highlights our commitment to positioning Lekki Port as a transformative force in Nigeria’s maritime industry. After 18 months of operations, we are proud to welcome this consortium, marking a new era of increased cargo volumes and greater efficiency for businesses nationwide. This achievement is just the beginning, » said Ruogang.
Reports also added that Adesuwa Ladoja, CEO of Lagos Free Zone, hailed the launch as a transformative event for the region. Ladoja noted that the introduction of COSCO, ONE, and ZIM services would attract substantial foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Lagos Free Zone.
« With four major shipping companies now calling at Lekki Port, we are offering clients more options and access to world-class facilities. This promotes business growth in the Lagos Free Zone and the broader Lekki economic region. Businesses can now directly import raw materials and export finished goods worldwide, supporting the economic revitalization we all aspire to. Lekki Port and the Lagos Free Zone are proud to play a key role in this transformation, » said Ladoja.
Source : apanews
