APM Terminals Boosts Lagos Port Exports by 6% in H1 2026

By Saheed Olatunji, Reporter

In the first half of 2026, Nigeria’s largest container terminal, APM Terminals Apapa, grew its export volumes by six percent, highlighting its dedication to boosting the nation’s non-oil exports and global market access.

Kamal Alhraishat, Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, stated today, Sunday that export growth resulted from Nigerian exporters’ resilience and new service improvements.

“Over the last five years, exports through our terminal have maintained a positive growth trajectory. This reflects both the resilience of Nigerian exporters and the targeted improvements we have made to facilitate export trade, simplify cargo flows and improve access to international markets,” Alhraishat said.

He noted several terminal initiatives driving exports, including dedicated gate lanes that speed up cargo entry.

“Our role goes beyond handling containers. We want to make it easier, faster and more competitive for Nigerian exporters to access global markets. Dedicated export lanes and our rail connectivity are all designed around that objective.

“The rail connection between Lagos and Moniya (Ibadan) operates three times a week, providing exporters with an efficient alternative to road transportation. By reducing reliance on trucks and exposure to interstate and Apapa traffic, we can improve the predictability of cargo movement and help exporters reach international markets more efficiently,” he added.

The terminal also receives export cargo through the Ebute Metta rail corridor, which facilitates cargo movement from various parts of Lagos, helping exporters avoid traffic congestion and reduce transit times to the port.

Alhraishat noted that beyond operational improvements, the terminal continues to create platforms that encourage collaboration among stakeholders across the export value chain.

“Through our Exporters Forum, now in its third year, we are creating a platform where exporters, government agencies, shipping lines, logistics partners and other stakeholders can come together to address real challenges across the export value chain.

“The objective is not only to discuss these challenges, but to translate the feedback into practical actions that make Nigerian exports more efficient and competitive. Our next session is scheduled to hold at the terminal on Wednesday, September 2,” he said.

The terminal’s major export commodities include soybeans, cashew nuts, cocoa, hibiscus flowers and solid minerals.

Speaking on the significance of the Exporters Forum, Head of Commercial, Kayode Olufemi-Daniel, said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s drive to build an export-led economy.

“Time is a critical factor in export trade, particularly for agricultural products. Delays within the supply chain can affect the quality of goods and, in some cases, render them unsuitable for export by the time they reach their destination. That is why we continuously review our operational processes and engage all stakeholders to identify opportunities for improvement and reduce delays across the value chain,” Olufemi-Daniel said.

He reaffirmed APM Terminals Apapa’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s export sector and elevate its products in global markets.