APM Terminals’ West Africa Container Terminal, WACT, at Onne Port, Rivers State, has initiated a joint barging operation with the Ibeto Group, marking a significant milestone in their newly formed partnership.
The first barge call symbolizes the activation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between WACT and Ibeto Group earlier this year. This collaboration aims to enhance the transportation of containers between WACT Onne and the Ibeto terminal in Port Harcourt, fostering seamless clearance and delivery of cargo while reducing the logistical challenges associated with trucking containers between the two locations.
The partnership addresses customers’ needs for efficient cargo handling and aims to streamline the process of accessing empty containers and stuffing export-bound goods at the Ibeto terminal. This is facilitated by utilizing WACT’s recently commissioned Container Freight Station (CFS).
Frederik Klinke, the CEO of APM Terminals, Nigeria, described the partnership as a significant achievement for WACT. He emphasized the company’s commitment to long-term investments. He highlighted the collaborative efforts with shipping line partners and the Ibeto Group to develop solutions that improve customer experience and bypass challenges posed by road conditions.
Chika Umeh, WACT Sales Manager, described the ceremony as a milestone event driven by customer feedback and aimed at expanding WACT’s service offerings. The proximity of the Ibeto terminal to customers’ warehouses and the cost efficiency were key factors in selecting Ibeto as a partner.
Fanick Atchia, WACT Operations Manager, reiterated the company’s commitment to enhancing customer experience by bringing cargo closer to customers and facilitating import, export, and empty container movements.
Cyril Obiora, the Operations Manager of Ibeto Group, emphasized the partnership’s importance in serving the importing and exporting community. He highlighted the potential for job creation and the positive impact on the maritime industry, emphasizing the underutilized potential of inland waterways as a safer and congestion-free alternative to road transport.
The West Africa Container Terminal, situated within the Oil and Gas Free Zone at Onne Port, Rivers State, is Nigeria’s first greenfield container terminal developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Over the years, it has become a crucial gateway to markets outside West Nigeria and a significant access point to East Nigeria.
Various stakeholders attended the ceremony commemorating the inaugural barge call, including board members of APM Terminals, the WACT leadership team, the Ibeto Group, and representatives from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
