In a statement on Sunday, the terminal operator said that
the ship named, MV Great Lagos, is owned by the Grimaldi Group.
The statement added that the ship which was launched in
April, was a marvel of modern engineering and environmental consciousness,
stretching 250 metres in length with a beam of 38 metres and a weight of over
45,000 tonnes.
The ship, according to the statement, can transport 4.7
kilometres of rolling freight, 2,500 car equivalent units, and 2,000 20-foot
equivalent units.
Speaking on the ship, the Managing Director of PTML, Ascanio
Russo, said, “MV Great Lagos is the second of the G5-class of ships recently
launched by the Grimaldi Group and named after Nigeria’s commercial capital,
which it has served for many decades. The vessel sets a new benchmark in the
shipping industry,”
Russo commended the Nigerian Ports Authority for its support
towards receiving the vessel.
He said the visit of MV Great Lagos to Lagos is a landmark
event for Nigeria’s maritime sector and PTML.
Russo added that the visit showcased the terminal’s advanced
capabilities and its role as a leading multipurpose logistics hub in the
region.
According to him, the arrival of ‘Great Lagos’ at PTML is
not just a routine port call; it is a testament to the terminal’s cutting-edge
facilities and its readiness to handle the new generation of mega-vessels. Its
arrival at the Lagos Port is a testament to the port’s capability to handle
vessels of such magnitude, further positioning Nigeria as a key player in the
global shipping industry.
“What truly sets the ‘Great Lagos’ apart is its compliance
with the highest environmental standards. In an age where environmental
sustainability is not just a preference but also a necessity, the ship leads
the way in eco-friendly maritime transport. Its advanced design and technology
significantly reduce the environmental impact, aligning with global efforts to
combat climate change and protect marine ecosystems,” Mr. Russo said.
He added that the terminal operator invested over $20m to
receive the ship, “By extending its Berth 11, equipping it with deeper berths,
expanded storage areas, and acquired state-of-the-art cargo handling
equipment,” he added.
“This transformation positions PTML as one of the most
advanced logistics terminals in West Africa, capable of handling a diverse
range of cargo types including bulk, break-bulk, containerised, and RORO
cargoes, he said.
He said, “The seamless integration of vessels and terminal
activities at PTML is a clear indication of Nigeria’s dedication to advancing
its maritime infrastructure while prioritizing environmental responsibility,”