APM Terminals announced that the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) which is located in Onne Port, invested in two new Mobile Harbor Cranes. This is in addition to an investment of approximately USD2.5 million already made this year.
The two Liebherr LHM 550 Mobile Harbor Cranes (MHCs) are to begin operations in July 2019, and will boost the efficiency and cargo handling operation of the terminal, enhancing service delivery and reducing vessel waiting time.
Up to now, WACT has already invested about USD2.5 million in 10 purpose-built terminal trucks, three reach stackers and an empty container handler, as well as terminal infrastructure and manpower development.
In the past two years the terminal has experienced an unprecedented volume growth. As Commercial Manager, Noah Sheriff commented
We have handled over 100% more cargo compared to what was advised by our shipping line customers. In 2018, for example, we saw volumes grow by 21% compared to the previous year.
In the meantime, Managing Director, Aamir Mirza, noted that the last development in mobile harbour cranes will enable the terminal to achieve its goals.
Also, the terminal has planned to proceed in infrastructure upgrade operations in 2020; This upgrade help WACT handle the growing volume anticipated in the eastern market for the next decade. WACT is proactively engaging the Nigeria Port Authority, Oil & Gas Free Zone and other government entities to ensure Onne Port is ready for the future growth opportunities.
Concluding, since its inception, WACT has played a pivotal role in successfully connecting East, North, West Central Nigeria and River State to the world.
