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MSC, Nigerdock sign 45-year deal to build major container terminal in Lagos
Frank Okon
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has signed a 45-year sub-concession agreement with Nigerdock to develop and operate a new container terminal at Snake Island Port in Lagos, marking a major investment in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector.
Under the agreement, MSC will develop, operate and maintain an exclusive container terminal covering 30 hectares within the port. Construction of the facility is expected to be completed by 2028.
The planned terminal will include a 910-meter quay, six ship-to-shore cranes, two ship berths and three barge berths, with a draft of up to 18 meters to accommodate larger vessels.
Nigerdock Chief Executive Officer Maher Jarmakani said the partnership represents a significant step in expanding port infrastructure and strengthening Nigeria’s position in global maritime trade.
“We are thrilled to take this step forward in our partnership with MSC to develop a world-class container terminal within Snake Island Port,” Jarmakani said. “This gives the world’s leading shipping line a home in Nigeria and brings significant foreign direct investment into the country to accelerate growth in the maritime and logistics industry.”
MSC President Diego Aponte said the project reflects the company’s long-term commitment to Nigeria and the broader African market.
“Completing this key phase in the development of Snake Island Container Terminal with Nigerdock and our trusted partners demonstrates MSC Group’s commitment to providing excellent service to our customers in Nigeria and throughout Africa,” he said. “The new terminal will open up opportunities, enhance efficiency and elevate Snake Island Port as a major global shipping center.”
Snake Island Port is an 85-hectare facility operated by Nigerdock and comprises three terminals that support cargo handling and logistics operations in Lagos.
Headquartered in Geneva, MSC was founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte and is currently the world’s largest container shipping line. The company operates about 1,000 vessels and maintains 675 offices in 155 countries.
MSC has served African trade routes since 1971 and now operates local offices in more than 45 countries across the continent, providing integrated shipping, road and rail logistics services.
Nigerdock, a Nigerian maritime and logistics company, operates an integrated port and free zone in Lagos that supports international trade with African markets.
