Global port operator APM Terminals has pledged a fresh $600 million investment in Nigeria’s maritime sector, in a move expected to strengthen ongoing port modernisation and boost confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform agenda.
The commitment was announced on Thursday during a meeting between President Tinubu and top executives of APM Terminals on the sidelines of the ongoing Africa CEO Forum in Kigali.
The APM Terminals delegation was led by Regional President, Africa-Europe, Igor van den Essen, alongside the company’s Head of Investments, Martijn Van Dongen, and Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke.
Van den Essen said the proposed investment would focus on the modernisation of Apapa Port, expansion of logistics infrastructure and long-term private sector participation in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
According to him, the investment reflects the company’s growing confidence in Nigeria’s economic direction and commitment to infrastructure transformation.
He described Nigeria as a strategic hub within APM Terminals’ African operations, noting that the company has maintained a strong presence in the country’s port ecosystem for more than two decades.
Van den Essen also commended Tinubu’s economic reforms, stating that the administration’s policy direction has improved investor confidence and created fresh momentum for long-term infrastructure investments.
He further praised the establishment of the National Single Window initiative, saying it has enhanced trade procedures, strengthened Customs coordination and reduced delays in cargo clearance.
The APM executive reaffirmed the company’s readiness to deepen its footprint in Nigeria through world-class terminal infrastructure and technology-driven port operations.
Responding, President Tinubu welcomed the investment, stressing that his administration remains committed to repositioning Nigeria as a globally competitive investment destination through reforms and infrastructure renewal.
The President said Nigeria was determined to overcome structural bottlenecks and outdated systems that have hindered efficiency in the maritime sector.
According to him, the country requires modern technology, faster cargo processing systems and improved operational efficiency across its ports to support economic growth and trade competitiveness.
Tinubu stated that Nigeria possesses the market size, skilled workforce and economic potential needed to sustain globally competitive maritime and logistics infrastructure.
He urged more international investors to take advantage of the opportunities emerging from the government’s ongoing reforms.
In a separate meeting with executives of Winme Group, Tinubu called for deeper investment partnerships to unlock opportunities in logistics, mining, shipping and integrated infrastructure development.
The President emphasised the importance of linking ports, transport networks, processing facilities and export infrastructure to accelerate industrialisation and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy.
The Winme Group delegation reportedly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s long-term investment prospects, citing the impact of Tinubu’s reforms and improving business climate.
