The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Hassan Bello has commended APM Terminals Apapa for deploying new cargo handling equipment.
Bello, who spoke during a courtesy visit to NSC office in Lagos by Mr. Klaus Laursen, Country Manager of APM Terminals explained that current economic realities dictate that priority should be given to export.
A press statement issued by Head, Public Relations, Rakiya Zubairu explained that while welcoming Mr. Laursen to Nigeria, the NSC boss suggested that export cargo should not attract storage charges and should be accelerated through the Terminals.
He also informed the APMT Country Manager of Council’s resolve to ensure that all terminals’ processes are fully automated and integrated with other port service providers’ and user’s before the year runs out.
Bello commended APMT’s collaboration with Nigerian Railway Corporation and barge operators in cargo delivery and evacuation.
Responding, Mr. Laursen said congestion at the terminal is due to freightforwarders not coming to clear their containers. This he said has contributed in no small way to the back up of ships on Nigeria’s territorial waters.
On automation, Mr. Laursen said APMT plans to optimize haulage at its terminal by implementing an electronic platform for truck management.
With regard to export cargo, Laursen emphasised the need to have all documentation including customs clearance before accessing the terminal.
He suggested that the Nigeria Railway Corporation advertise its services in order to increase patronage.
