The MV Sapphire, Nigeria’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered container yesterday arrived at APM Terminals in Lagos Port Complex, Apapa.
This milestone marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s maritime industry, as the country moves towards embracing cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
The MV Sapphire’s arrival demonstrates the terminal’s commitment to accommodating environmentally friendly vessels and promoting sustainable shipping practices.
With a carrying capacity of 7,800 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), the MV Sapphire is a state-of-the-art vessel that boasts advanced LNG propulsion technology. This eco-friendly propulsion system significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
The berthing of the MV Sapphire at APM Terminals Apapa underscores Nigeria’s growing importance in the global maritime industry. As the country continues to invest in its port infrastructure and embrace sustainable technologies, it is poised to become a hub for maritime trade in West Africa.
The arrival of the MV Sapphire is a testament to the country’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its determination to play a leading role in the global maritime industry.
Speaking at the event, Todd Rives, Managing Director of Lagos and Niger Shipping Agency Limited (LANSAL), which represents Gold Star Line in Nigeria, described the berthing as a historic milestone. He recalled that Gold Star Line, incorporated in 1958, remains one of the oldest shipping agencies operating in Nigeria, with a longstanding commitment to customer service.
He stressed that the arrival of the MV Sapphire was more than just a routine docking, but rather a symbol of progress and partnership, designed to reduce voyage costs, promote operational efficiency, and reinforce environmental sustainability. According to him, the vessel is the beginning of a new era in Nigerian maritime trade, and he expressed optimism that her sister ships would also call at the port in the near future.
Kayode Daniel, Commercial Manager of APM Terminals Apapa, described the moment as a significant achievement for the port and underlined the shared commitment to sustainable maritime practices.
He explained that shipping lines globally are working together to reduce emissions, in line with international sustainability targets.
He praised LANSAL for deploying LNG-powered vessels in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirming that it was aligned with the global APM Terminals ESG goals, to move to cleaner sources of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions.
The Port Manager of the Lagos Port Complex Apapa, Adebowale Lawal, represented by the Chief Port Security Officer, Bukar Kaumi, commended Gold Star Line and LANSAL for their foresight.