APM Terminals Apapa has announced a six per cent increase in export volumes in the first half of 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s non-oil export growth and improving access to international markets.
The terminal disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, obtained by The PUNCH.
The Terminal Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Kamal Alhraishat, attributed the growth to the resilience of Nigerian exporters, backed by a series of operational and service improvements aimed at easing export trade.
“Over the last five years, exports through our terminal have maintained a positive growth trajectory. The terminal recorded a six per cent increase in export volumes in the first half of 2026. 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.
Dedicated Export Lanes, Rail Connectivity Driving Efficiency
He highlighted several initiatives the terminal has introduced to encourage exports, including dedicated export lanes at the terminal gate designed to speed up cargo access.
“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.
Alhraishat noted that the terminal also handles export cargo via the Ebute Metta rail corridor, which allows goods to move from different parts of Lagos while helping exporters avoid road congestion and cut transit times to the port.
Exporters Forum Fosters Stakeholder Collaboration
Beyond operational upgrades, Alhraishat said the terminal continues to create platforms that promote 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, 2 September,” he said.
Speaking on the significance of the forum, the 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 added that APM Terminals Apapa remains committed to working with customers, government agencies and other industry partners to strengthen Nigeria’s export ecosystem and boost the global competitiveness of Nigerian products.
The terminal’s major export commodities include soybeans, cashew nuts, cocoa, hibiscus flowers and solid minerals.
