According to a white paper by terminal operator APM Terminals and international systems change consultancy Systemiq, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to electrify its containerized trade at scale by leapfrogging fossil-powered infrastructure.
Report findings
The report highlights that the benefits of electrification are substantial. For example, researchers found that the transition can mobilize up to US$830m in investments by 2030, create higher-skilled local jobs, save 390ktCO2e in greenhouse gas, reduce air pollution, improve public health and strengthen power supply reliability.
To unlock its full potential, Nigeria reportedly must activate strong public-private collaboration to kick-start implementation of the roadmap, starting with short-term actions and building toward sustained progress over the next five to 10 years. The report asserts that the key focus areas – reliable, affordable power supply and equipment electrification – can be addressed in parallel.
“Our findings clearly show that the time to act is now,” said Eveline Speelman, a partner at Systemiq. “Electrification aligns with upcoming investment cycles and can drive progress on key national priorities. With nearly 60% of container terminal concessions approaching renewal, the moment is right to embed electrification into the next wave of logistics infrastructure investment.”
APM Terminals’ investment plans
APM Terminals operates two container terminals in Nigeria – Apapa in Lagos and WACT in Onne – as well as a container depot in Kano.
Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, commented, “Containerized trade is a vital backbone of economic development in Nigeria, and we view the country as a key growth market. We believe that electrification plays an integral part in bringing operations into the most advanced level globally. This white paper outlines a clear roadmap for how public-private partnerships can unlock electrified and decarbonized operations. From our global experience as a terminal operator, we know that beyond lowering emissions, electrification improves the working environment, reduces air and noise pollution, and delivers tangible benefits to neighboring communities.”