In a significant stride towards enhancing trade facilitation, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) achieved a noteworthy milestone with the successful berthing of the largest container vessel to navigate Nigerian territorial waters at the Lekki Deep Seaport on Sunday, January 21, 2024.
The vessel, named “Maersk Edirne,” boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 367 meters in length overall, with a breadth of 48.2 meters. It carries a Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of 142,131 metric tonnes and a Dead Weight Tonnage (DWT) of 147,340 metric tonnes. Laden with a substantial cargo load totaling 3,376 units, the vessel was skillfully navigated to safety by the highly experienced and well-equipped pilots of the Nigerian Ports Authority.
This accomplishment substantiates the commitments articulated by Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko, the Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Ports Authority, during the signing of the Presidential/Ministerial Performance Bond in December 2023. Mr. Koko had expressed that “the Authority, under my watch, is committed to providing the leadership and technical guidance required to maximize the potentials inherent in our marine and blue economy.”
Acknowledging this significant achievement on Sunday, Mr. Bello Koko extended commendation to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola. The Minister’s consistent support and endorsement of the Authority’s initiatives, particularly in employee upskilling and equipment renewal, played a pivotal role in seamlessly realizing this remarkable feat.
Prior to this development, the largest commercial vessels navigating Nigerian waters were the “MV Stadelhorn” and “MSC Maureen,” located at the Onne Port and TinCan Island Port Complexes, respectively. Therefore, the berthing of the 367-meter vessel at Lekki Deep Seaport represents a significant leap forward in maritime capabilities.
This accomplishment underscores the readiness of the Lekki Deep Seaport, which has not only pioneered full automation but has also facilitated transhipment, thereby surpassing the expectations of stakeholders. The successful berthing of the “Maersk Edirne” reinforces the port’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the maritime sector.
