APM Terminals Nigeria has urged the government, industry, investors, and development partners to collaborate on developing bankable green infrastructure projects. This initiative aims to transform Nigeria's maritime sector and support its transition to a low-carbon economy. Chairman of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, made the call at the second Decarbonising Infrastructure in Nigeria (DIN) Summit in Abuja. The summit's theme was 'De-risking Green Infrastructure Investments: From Policy Architecture to Bankable Projects.' Klinke emphasized the need for implementation, focusing on translating policy ambition into scalable projects.
Nigeria has made significant progress in advancing maritime reforms and climate action. However, Klinke stressed that the next phase must focus on implementation. He highlighted that maritime transport accounts for over 80% of global trade by volume, making the sector's decarbonisation critical to achieving climate goals and strengthening long-term economic competitiveness. The development of green infrastructure projects can deliver both economic and environmental benefits.
Klinke noted that several factors are crucial for the development of green infrastructure projects. These include regulatory clarity, project readiness, reliable emissions data, and stronger integration across ports, roads, rail, and inland logistics networks. He urged stakeholders to move beyond dialogue and focus on execution. The infrastructure investments and partnerships established today will shape Nigeria's future economy, trade competitiveness, and environmental sustainability.
Koen De Backker, CEO of APM Terminals Nigeria, highlighted the critical role of ports and terminals in the energy transition. He noted that reducing emissions begins with improving logistics systems' efficiency. This can be achieved by reducing equipment usage and fuel consumption, minimising truck waiting times and congestion, improving cargo flow and operational efficiency, supporting cleaner energy solutions, and preparing for lower-emission technologies.
Musaddiq Adamu, Personal Assistant to the President on Subnational Infrastructure, said the DIN Summit was established to address a critical challenge: moving green infrastructure projects from concept to investment. Engagements from previous editions have produced tangible outcomes, including progress on port electrification initiatives. A partnership with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) was established to advance port operations' electrification and position Onne Port as a leading example of green port development in Nigeria.
APM Terminals, in partnership with the NPA, plans to invest in green power infrastructure and electric equipment across its Apapa and Onne operations. This initiative is part of its long-term commitment to sustainable logistics. The investment is expected to strengthen Nigeria's trade competitiveness while advancing the country's climate ambitions. The partnership aims to position Onne Port as a leading example of green port development in Nigeria.
The development of green infrastructure projects in Nigeria's maritime sector can have a significant impact on the country's climate goals and economic competitiveness. APM Terminals Nigeria's push for stronger collaboration among stakeholders is crucial in achieving these goals. The company's investment in green power infrastructure and electric equipment is a step towards reducing emissions and promoting sustainable logistics in Nigeria.
Key points
- APM Terminals Nigeria calls for collaboration to develop bankable green infrastructure projects.
- The development of green infrastructure projects can deliver both economic and environmental benefits.
- APM Terminals plans to invest in green power infrastructure and electric equipment across its Apapa and Onne operations.
