Nigerian ports are set to receive a major boost following a $1.2 billion investment from Denmark, announced by the Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, Mr. Jens Hansen. The investment, made through APM Terminals, targets the modernization and expansion of key Nigerian ports, including Apapa and Onne, with plans for further growth. The announcement was made during a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, in Abuja.
The Danish ambassador also congratulated Nigeria on its election to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, describing it as recognition of Nigeria’s rising leadership in maritime affairs. Hansen emphasized that membership on the IMO Council gives Nigeria a strategic platform to influence global maritime policy, participate in key decisions on safety and environmental standards, and contribute to international ocean governance.
Hansen highlighted the strong alignment of interests between Denmark and Nigeria in the marine and blue economy sector. “APM Terminals has invested approximately $1.2 billion in Nigerian ports, with plans to expand operations further,” he said, while also noting Denmark’s global expertise in wind energy and green maritime technology. He expressed readiness to share knowledge and support sustainable maritime solutions in Nigeria.
Minister Oyetola used the meeting to actively court Danish investment, describing Denmark as a valued partner and promising investors a favorable climate, strong institutional support, and promising returns. He also detailed Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, including strengthened maritime security that has reduced piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, port modernization programs, inland waterway revitalization, and fisheries and aquaculture development.
Both Nigeria and Denmark agreed to sustain collaboration, exploring additional investment, technical cooperation, and partnership opportunities in the maritime and blue economy. Oyetola emphasized that these initiatives aim to drive sustainable economic growth, create jobs, boost trade, and position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa, calling on Danish investors to seize the emerging opportunities.
source: punch