Over the weekend, the Lagos Port Complex (LPC), Apapa, achieved a historic milestone by successfully accommodating the docking of a vessel measuring 300 meters in length overall (LOA).

This remarkable achievement, which has never been seen before, serves as evidence of the strong dedication of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) under the leadership of Mohammed Bello Koko. It reflects their continuous investment in port infrastructure and equipment, fostering a culture of operational excellence.

The vessel, named Kota Canik, which translates to "beautiful point," is specifically designed to transport a capacity of up to 6600 TEUs. Its arrival marks a significant milestone and highlights the potential that enhanced infrastructure and equipment upgrades can bring.

During the inauguration of two state-of-the-art control towers aimed at enhancing navigation safety and elevating the Apapa and TinCan Ports to internationally recognized standards, Bello Koko emphasized the Nigerian Ports Authority's unwavering commitment to equipping the ports for outstanding performance that surpasses the expectations of stakeholders.

In response to this development, Charles Bamidele Okaga, the Port Manager of Lagos Port Complex, expressed the commitment of Apapa Port to continuously enhance the quality of service that led to this significant achievement. He assured Pacific International Line (PIL), the liner, that all necessary efficiencies required to accommodate the expected 350-meter LOA vessel are already in place.

This remarkable accomplishment by Apapa Port follows closely on the heels of the recent reception in May of MSc Maureen, a vessel with a Length Over All (LOA) of 300 meters and a breadth of 40 meters, which successfully berthed at TinCan Island Port Complex in Lagos. These achievements demonstrate the preparedness of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to establish and sustain improved performance standards.