1,000 Export Containers Trapped at Apapa Port, Nigeria

Approximately 1,000 export containers are currently trapped at Apapa Port, leading to substantial financial losses for exporters in Nigeria. Juliana Saka from the Nigerian Shipper Council reported that out of 1,800 export containers, only 800 have been able to leave, leaving 1,000 stuck due to a shortage of vessels.

This issue has been attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has limited shipping options. Lawal Lekan, managing director of LWL Concept, emphasized that the unavailability of vessels is a major concern, particularly for perishables.

Femi Anifowos from the Nigerian Licensed Customs Agent Association noted that the situation is affecting various goods, including cashew and soya, with losses estimated at around N20 billion. Yinka Bakar, president of the African Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics Nigeria, expressed that the challenges at Apapa Port are undermining Nigeria's export drive and discouraging international buyers.

Urgent action from relevant stakeholders is needed to resolve these bottlenecks.