Lekki Port is capable of handling world’s largest container vessels – Odibe

The management of Lekki Port has showcased the transformative role of the port in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector.

Mr. Daniel Odibe, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Lekki Port, listed all the transformative infrastructure in the port to include a 2-kilometre-long breakwater (the longest in Nigeria), 16.5-meter draft, and 680-meter quay length in the phase 1 development.

All these facilities, according to Odibe, have positioned Lekki Port as the only port in the country capable of handling the world’s largest container vessels.

Odibe showcased these key infrastructure in a keynote address he delivered at the 5th edition of the Journal NG Town Hall held on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

Odibe’s address detailed the port’s infrastructure, operational achievements, and role in shaping the future of trade in Nigeria.

He noted that Lekki Port is a product of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and has already begun transforming the maritime landscape.

“Lekki Port is more than a port; it is a symbol of what is possible when vision meets collaboration. Built at a cost of $1.5 billion, it is projected to deliver $201 billion in revenue to the government and create over 170,000 jobs,” Odibe stated.

Odibe also emphasised the port’s innovative systems, including automated gate processes, biometric truck appointments, and drive-through scanners—all designed to reduce human interference and improve efficiency. He explained that these are essential for enabling round-the-clock operations in a country where many ports still struggle with physical examination bottlenecks.

He further noted the port’s integration into Nigeria’s broader industrial ecosystem, citing its location within the Lagos Free Zone and proximity to major infrastructure such as the Dangote Refinery and the Lekki-Epe Expressway. Current operations already include 30-40% cargo evacuation by barge, with rail integration underway.

“If we are serious about trade facilitation and economic growth, Lekki Port is the blueprint. We have moved from vision to execution—and the results are evident,” Odibe concluded.

Earlier in his welcome address, Mr. Ismail Aniemu, publisher of Journal NG and convener of the town hall series, reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to driving policy discussions that catalyze change in Nigeria’s port and trade environment.

“This forum is more than just a meeting – it is a movement. We must go beyond workshops and engage in meaningful dialogue that results in actionable outcomes. Whether it’s Sapele, Koko, or Lekki, every Nigerian port has the potential to be a smart port,” said Aniemu.

Also speaking at the event, former President of NAGAFF, Dr. Eugene Nweke, stressed the importance of collective responsibility and strategic alignment in the journey toward 24-hour port operations.

“This is not about pointing fingers. It’s about national pride, policy alignment, and infrastructural will. To move forward, we must adopt a holistic view—embracing collaboration, investing in technology, and strengthening inter-agency efficiency,” he emphasised.

The forum, hosted by Journal NG, brought together key figures in port operations, customs, trade facilitation, and policy development with discussions centred on bridging the gap between aspiration and implementation in achieving seamless 24/7 port operations across Nigeria.