APM Terminals Apapa has announced plans to implement round-the-clock barge operations at its Finger Jetty, commencing in the fourth quarter of 2026. This strategic move is designed to address and mitigate existing bottlenecks within Nigeria's export logistics chain, which has historically faced challenges related to cargo movement and port access.
The introduction of 24-hour barge services is expected to significantly improve the flow of goods, offering an alternative to road transport for moving cargo to and from the terminal. By leveraging inland waterways more effectively, APM Terminals Apapa aims to reduce truck dwell times, alleviate road congestion around the port, and enhance the overall efficiency and predictability of export shipments.
For freight forwarders and shippers, this development could lead to more reliable and potentially faster transit times for cargo utilizing barge transport. It offers an additional, more consistent mode of evacuation and delivery, which may help in planning and executing shipments more smoothly, especially for time-sensitive exports. The increased operational hours are also likely to improve terminal fluidity, potentially reducing delays and associated costs for container movements.
While the article does not specify further steps, the successful implementation of this initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of inland waterway transport solutions in Nigeria, potentially inspiring similar infrastructure and operational upgrades at other terminals to further optimize logistics across the region.
