In a strategic move to tackle congestion and boost trade efficiency, two major maritime players have signed a landmark agreement for port operations in Lagos. APM Terminals and Barging Marine Solutions Limited (BMS) have entered into an exclusive lease agreement set to run until September 2031.
Strategic Partnership to Unlock Port Potential
The deal, signed on December 23, 2025, in Apapa, Lagos, is designed to significantly increase trade capacity and provide enhanced barge connections for customers and shipping lines. The signing ceremony was attended by key executives including APM Terminals CEO Keith Svendsen, Regional Managing Director for Europe and Africa Igor van den Essen, and APM Terminals Nigeria CEO Frederik Klinke. Representing BMS were Founder Philippe Soulier and CEO Karim Said.
Keith Svendsen highlighted the strong growth of the Nigerian market throughout 2025 as a key driver for the collaboration. "It is important that we take the necessary steps to develop and realise the potential of the terminal," he stated, expressing confidence in the market's future development. He praised BMS for running a resilient business and noted the anticipated synergies from the partnership.
Enhanced Logistics Solutions for a Congested Corridor
Karim Said of BMS explained that the collaboration builds on the existing strong business relationship between the two firms. The partnership will leverage BMS's expertise in barging and terminal operations to provide additional capacity and more reliable delivery for APM Terminals' customers.
The enhanced services will include operations from two waterfront and inland container terminals. A core benefit will be providing a viable alternative to road transportation. This shift is expected to ease the severe pressure on Apapa's road network, reduce notorious traffic congestion, and ultimately lower logistics-related costs for importers and exporters.
Driving Reliability and a Seamless Supply Chain
Frederik Klinke, Managing Director of APM Terminals Nigeria, emphasized the dual impact of the deal. He pointed out that the improved barge services, combined with APM Terminals' leading position in inland container depots, will improve both the reliability and speed of services for customers.
"It will also optimise the terminal’s coordination across the supply chain, which will give a more seamless customer experience," Klinke added. Under the terms of the agreement, BMS will operate the services for APM Terminals, with both companies committed to jointly developing value-added solutions for their clients. This long-term commitment until 2031 signals a major investment in modernizing and expanding port infrastructure in Nigeria's commercial capital.
