APM Terminals urges shift to electric container transport, presenting roadmap to Vice President Shettima.
The proposal outlines job creation, investment growth, and cleaner air through logistics electrification.
APM Terminals has presented a comprehensive white paper to Vice President Kashim Shettima, proposing a roadmap to electrify Nigeria’s container transport sector. The document, titled “A Pragmatic Roadmap to Unlock Transformational Benefits Well Beyond Decarbonization,” was shared during the recent Decarbonizing Infrastructure in Nigeria Summit held in Abuja.
The event, hosted at the Presidential Villa and organized by the Vice President’s office, had the theme “Unlocking Climate Finance for Sustainable Development.” It brought together government officials, private sector leaders, and international development partners to discuss pathways toward low-carbon infrastructure and green investment in the country.
In its white paper, APM Terminals highlighted Nigeria’s potential to shift from diesel-powered logistics to electric-powered solutions. The company estimates that by electrifying container transport, Nigeria could attract up to $830 million in investment by 2030, reduce carbon emissions by 390,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent, create high-skilled jobs, and boost public health and energy reliability.
“More than 40 ports globally have adopted electrification, including facilities in emerging economies like Kenya and India,” the statement read. “Nigeria can do the same if we act quickly and encourage strong public-private partnerships to improve power supply and invest in electric cargo-handling equipment.”
During the summit, Vice President Shettima stressed that economic growth and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand. He described the summit as the result of in-depth national consultations and technical discussions.
Shettima reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending diesel reliance and moving toward hybrid energy systems. He also pointed to the Onne Port in Rivers State as a leading example of Nigeria’s green ambitions. “We are already in talks with private investors to secure nearly $60 million in funding to electrify Onne and make it Nigeria’s first green port,” he said.
Also speaking at the summit, Frederik Klinke, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, said the company operates two container terminals Apapa in Lagos and WACT in Onne as well as a depot in Kano.
“Containerized trade is central to Nigeria’s economic development, and we consider the country a key growth market,” Klinke noted. “Electrification is not only about reducing emissions it enhances operations, improves work environments, reduces air and noise pollution, and delivers meaningful value to surrounding communities.”
He added that the white paper outlines how public-private cooperation can help Nigeria build world-class, sustainable port operations using proven models from other markets where APM Terminals operates.
