Lekki Port Showcases Smart Infrastructure, Economic Potential at Industry Forum

Oluchi Chibuzor

Lekki Port’s transformative role in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector was brought into sharp focus during the 5th edition of the Journal NG Town Hall held on Thursday, April 17, 2024.

At the landmark forum convened to explore gaps in achieving 24-hour port operations in Nigeria, Daniel Odibe, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Lekki Port, delivered an impactful presentation detailing the port’s infrastructure, operational achievements, and role in shaping the future of trade in Nigeria.

The event began with a warm welcome by Mr. Ismail Aniemu, publisher of Journal NG and convener of the town hall series. In his address, he reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to driving policy discussions that catalyze change in Nigeria’s port and trade environment.

In his opening remarks, former President of NAGAFF, Dr. Eugene Nweke, stressed the importance of collective responsibility and strategic alignment in the journey toward 24-hour port operations.

“This is not about pointing fingers. It’s about national pride, policy alignment, and infrastructural will. To move forward, we must adopt a holistic view—embracing collaboration, investing in technology, and strengthening inter-agency efficiency,” he emphasised.

In his keynote presentation, Daniel Odibe highlighted Lekki Port’s impressive infrastructure—including a 2-kilometre-long breakwater (the longest in Nigeria), 16.5-meter draft, and 680-meter quay length in the phase 1 development—positioning Lekki Port as the only port in the country capable of handling the world’s largest container vessels. He noted that Lekki Port is a product of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and has already begun transforming the maritime landscape.