In a momentous event on Monday, January 29, 2024, Lagos Free Zone proudly welcomed the CMA CGM SCANDOLA, an LNG-powered behemoth boasting 14,812 TEUs and an impressive length Overall (LoA) of 36.6 meters and a width of 51 meters Breaking barriers, this monumental vessel marked not only the largest container ship to berth in Nigeria but also the first LNG-powered vessel to navigate West Africa. The historic berthing took place at the state-of-the-art Lekki Deep Sea Port, operated by LFTZ Enterprise Limited.
Some days ago, at precisely 14.42 hours on Sunday January 21, 2024, the Lekki Port, successfully berthed the MAERSK EDIRNE, a 13,092 TEUs vessel. The MAERSK EDIRNE is a container ship with a length overall (LOA) of 366 meters and a width of 48 meters.
The CMA CGM SCANDOLA’s arrival heralds a new era in maritime achievement for Nigeria. With a capacity of 14,812 TEUs, this LNG-powered giant sets a precedent for sustainable and technologically advanced shipping in the region. The vessel’s historic journey positions the Lekki Deep Sea Port as Nigeria’s deepest and most advanced seaport, offering unmatched capabilities in handling large-scale maritime operations.
The ceremony commemorating this historic milestone was graced by the presence of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the management and stakeholders for their commitment to advancing the Nigerian maritime industry. He acknowledged the significant achievements of the Lekki Deep Sea Port since its commissioning, emphasizing its role in driving economic growth and development.
According to Mohammed Bello Koko, NPA’s managing director on his “X” page, “the arrival of the LNG-powered vessel is much in line with the ministerial directive to take into consideration the energy transition in our port modernization project by deliberately factoring in measures that promote energy efficiency.”
The berthing of the CMA CGM SCANDOLA signifies more than just a remarkable feat in maritime history; it marks the beginning of a new era for Lagos Free Zone. The management and stakeholders envision an efficient and competitive industrial ecosystem that positions Nigeria as a true trade and manufacturing hub in West Africa. The strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities at the Lekki Deep Sea Port empower the LFZ to play a pivotal role in transforming the economic landscape.
With this milestone, Lagos Free Zone reiterates its dedication to achieving more landmark events and contributing significantly to the growth of the Nigerian economy. The efficient operations and world-class infrastructure of the Lekki Deep Sea Port exemplify the commitment to excellence that defines LFZ. This achievement is not just a celebration of the present success but a commitment to continued success and the attainment of impactful milestones in the future.
The Lekki Deep Sea Port is 75% owned by the China Harbour Engineering Company and Singapore’s Tolaram Group, with the balance shared between the Lagos state government and the Nigerian Ports Authority.
