The Terminal Manager of APM Terminals Apapa, Mr. Steen Knudsen, has announced a temporary suspension on the acceptance of additional empty containers at the terminal. This decision comes as the terminal grapples with an unprecedented accumulation of empty containers, resulting in significant yard congestion.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Knudsen addressed widespread concerns regarding the handling of empty containers at the port, clarifying the root causes and the ongoing efforts by APM Terminals to resolve the issue swiftly.
Contrary to rumors circulating that APM Terminals Apapa is refusing to receive empty containers outright, the terminal management clarified that the responsibility for evacuating empty containers into the terminal and onward shipment rests solely with shipping lines. These shipping companies own and control the containers, and their operational priorities significantly influence container flow at the port.
Mr. Knudsen explained that a recent sharp and sustained surge in imports has compelled shipping lines to prioritise the discharging of laden containers over the evacuation of empties. This operational shift has led to a backlog of empty containers within the terminal premises, drastically limiting available yard space.
“As a result of this build-up, APMT Apapa has had to temporarily restrict the reception of additional empty containers until the existing inventory is cleared by the shipping lines,” Knudsen stated.
This congestion is not unique to APM Terminals but reflects a systemic challenge affecting ports globally, where import surges disrupt the delicate balance of container logistics. The imbalance affects not only terminal operations but also landside logistics including truck operators, freight forwarders, and consignees.
Recognising the widespread impact, APM Terminals Apapa has been actively engaging with shipping lines and government agencies to expedite the clearance of empty containers from the terminal yard. These engagements aim to increase vessel evacuation frequency and improve operational flow.
Knudsen emphasised, “This situation is not a failure of terminal operations but a consequence of the imbalance in container traffic volumes. Shipping lines must play a critical role in ensuring that containers are moved out of the terminal efficiently once returned as empties.”
He appealed for patience from customers, truck operators, and all stakeholders affected by the temporary restrictions and assured that every effort is being made to normalise the flow of empty containers.
“APM Terminals Apapa remains committed to professionalism, efficient service delivery, and partnership with all stakeholders to ensure the continued smooth operation of Nigeria’s supply chain,” Knudsen added.
The ongoing surge in imports at Nigeria’s largest port has been driven by growing consumer demand and increasing trade activities. However, this surge has placed unprecedented pressure on container yards, which must accommodate both incoming laden containers and outgoing empties.
Empty containers, essential for export activities, must be efficiently processed to avoid bottlenecks that can delay cargo movements and increase logistical costs. The current backlog threatens to disrupt the supply chain, potentially impacting export volumes and increasing operational costs for businesses relying on timely container availability.
This development comes as APM Terminals Apapa recently expanded its container yard capacity to boost non-oil exports, signalling a commitment to support Nigeria’s trade diversification goals. However, effective container management remains critical to achieving these objectives.
In response to the congestion, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and relevant government agencies have been urged to support coordinated actions that facilitate faster vessel turnaround times and improve container evacuation rates.
Experts suggest that addressing systemic challenges such as infrastructure constraints, operational inefficiencies, and the need for enhanced collaboration between terminal operators and shipping lines is essential for long-term port efficiency.
While the temporary suspension of empty container collection at APM Terminals Apapa poses immediate challenges, it highlights broader issues within Nigeria’s maritime logistics ecosystem. Through concerted efforts by all stakeholders, including terminal operators, shipping lines, government agencies, and private sector partners, these challenges can be addressed to enhance Nigeria’s position as a key trade hub in West Africa.
APM Terminals Apapa’s proactive communication and engagement efforts underscore its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s ports remain competitive and capable of supporting the country’s growing trade and economic ambitions.