The eastern Nigerian maritime corridor has witnessed a historic milestone with the maiden arrival of the MSC Dorine V at the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT), marking the launch of the MSC Iroko Service.
The Liberian-flagged containership, carrying 5,089 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) directly from China and the Far East, signifies a strategic shift in Nigeria’s shipping and trade dynamics.
According to terminal operators, the arrival of MSC Dorine V on Sunday, 9 November 2025, enhances Nigeria’s position as a key hub for international shipping in the South-South and South-East regions.
With a deadweight tonnage of 68,383 tons, a gross tonnage of 54,193 tons, and an overall length of 294 meters, the vessel is among the largest to ever dock in eastern Nigerian ports.
Onne Multipurpose Terminal Heralds a New Era of Trade
The Managing Director of Onne Multipurpose Terminal, Nicolo Scannavini, described the maiden call as a game-changer for regional trade, noting that it would significantly reduce freight costs and cut transit times for imports from China and the Far East.
“This direct call eliminates several layers of delay that importers have traditionally faced.
It ensures shorter transit times, predictable arrival schedules, and more affordable shipping costs, ultimately benefiting manufacturers, traders, and supply chains,” Scannavini said.
He further emphasized that the direct service unlocks new commercial opportunities and strengthens the reliability of supply chains.
“Bigger vessels calling directly creates economies of scale that stimulate jobs, increase competitiveness, and expand trade,” he added.
The development also promises to elevate Nigeria’s non-oil trade profile by encouraging foreign carriers to explore the eastern maritime corridor.
Scannavini highlighted the need for accelerated dredging and the construction of a second turning basin at the Port of Onne to accommodate even larger vessels in the future.
MSC Commits to Eastern Nigerian Market
Oscar Aguocha, MSC’s Regional Manager for South-South and South-East Nigeria, hailed the maiden call as a demonstration of the company’s long-term commitment to the eastern Nigerian maritime sector.
He revealed that the MSC Iroko Service would enable businesses to receive shipments from China and Eastern Asia in as little as 40 to 42 days, offering unprecedented speed, cost efficiency, and reliability.
“The eastern ports, particularly Onne Multipurpose Terminal, now offer direct connections to international markets, and this presents opportunities for businesses to optimise supply chains and improve competitiveness,” Aguocha said.
Strategic Role of Onne Multipurpose Terminal in Nigeria’s Maritime Industry
Operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc., Onne Multipurpose Terminal serves as a strategic logistics gateway for Nigeria’s offshore energy sector and facilitates import-export trade across the South-South and South-East.
Over the years, OMT has recorded multiple operational achievements, including handling some of the region’s largest gearless vessels, upgrading terminal equipment, expanding yard facilities, and implementing advanced cargo-handling technology.
These developments have helped reduce congestion in Lagos ports, reposition the eastern ports for faster cargo evacuation, and attract new international shipping services.
By leveraging modernised cranes, terminal operating systems, and workforce upskilling, the Onne Multipurpose Terminal has become one of Nigeria’s most reliable and efficient multipurpose terminals.
The arrival of MSC Dorine V reinforces OMT’s reputation as a maritime hub that is capable of accommodating high-capacity vessels while supporting trade growth and regional economic development.
Industry experts believe the milestone will encourage further investment in the eastern maritime corridor, strengthen supply chains, and provide local businesses with more predictable access to global markets.
Economic Implications of the MSC Iroko Service
The direct call service to Onne Multipurpose Terminal is expected to generate substantial economic benefits.
By reducing shipping costs and ensuring faster cargo delivery, the service is likely to increase the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses in regional and international markets.
Manufacturers, traders, and logistics operators stand to gain significantly from enhanced predictability and reliability in supply chains.
Furthermore, the development underscores Nigeria’s potential as a maritime hub, promoting the eastern ports as viable alternatives to congested western ports such as Apapa and Tin Can Island.
Experts argue that continued investment in infrastructure, dredging, and digital terminal operations will cement OMT’s position as a leading port in Sub-Saharan Africa.
With more than a dozen international shipping lines now exploring direct services to Nigeria’s eastern ports, the Onne Multipurpose Terminal has the potential to catalyse trade expansion, increase employment opportunities, and stimulate growth in non-oil sectors, contributing to national economic diversification.
As the MSC Iroko Service begins operations, industry stakeholders are optimistic that Onne Multipurpose Terminal will continue to attract larger vessels, support efficient cargo handling, and enhance the overall competitiveness of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
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