Apapa Terminal records 6% export growth in H1 2026

APM Terminals Apapa recorded a 6% increase in export volumes in the first half of 2026, as the terminal promoted measures aimed at supporting Nigeria’s non-oil exports.

Managing Director Kamal Alhraishat attributed the growth to the resilience of Nigerian exporters and improvements intended to simplify cargo flows and improve access to international markets. The terminal introduced dedicated export lanes at its gate to speed up access for export cargo.

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Over the last five years, exports through our terminal have maintained a positive growth trajectory. The terminal recorded a six per cent increase in export volumes in the first half of 2026. This reflects both the resilience of Nigerian exporters and the targeted improvements we have made to facilitate export trade, simplify cargo flows and improve access to international markets.

Rail connections form part of the effort. The Lagos-to-Moniya route in Ibadan operates three times a week, giving exporters an alternative to road transport. The terminal said the connection can reduce dependence on trucks and exposure to interstate and Apapa traffic, making cargo movements more predictable.

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Our role goes beyond handling containers. We want to make it easier, faster and more competitive for Nigerian exporters to access global markets.

The terminal also handles export cargo through the Ebute Metta rail corridor. That route allows goods from different parts of Lagos to reach the port while helping exporters avoid road congestion and reduce transit times.

Alhraishat said the terminal’s Exporters Forum, now in its third year, provides a platform for exporters, government agencies, shipping lines, logistics partners and other participants to address problems across the export chain. The next session was scheduled at the terminal for Sept. 2.

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Through our Exporters Forum, now in its third year, we are creating a platform where exporters, government agencies, shipping lines, logistics partners and other stakeholders can come together to address real challenges across the export value chain.