The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT), owners and operators of the Port, entered a partnership with Ibeto Group commence a barging operation from the Port to the Port Harcourt terminal of Ibeto Group. This is the most audacious move by the two parties, which will take away over 65% of all cargo operations from the Lagos Ports.The Port located in the Bonny Estuary along the river of Ọgụ Creek, is in the largest Oil and Gas Free Zone, in the world. It provides logistics for Oil Service centre for the Oil and Gas Industry, and access in Nigeria and the region of the entire West Africa, and Sub-Sahara Oil fields.The Port accounts for over 65% of the cargo export, through the
Nigerian Sea Port. Aside oil and gas handling, the Port also handles some other operations, such as General Cargoes, Bulk Cargoes (Dry & Wet), Oil Well Equipment, Containerized Cargoes and other Logistics Services, for customer and tenant companies.Onne Port, sitting on a land area of 2,538,115 hectares, has one of the biggest harbour mobile cranes in Africa (Liebherr 600), with a lifting capacity of 208 metric tons and 220 Gmk5220 grove twin cranes, that has capacity of lifting single heavy cargo of 300 tons owned by one of the Terminal Operators in the Port.
Aside the huge benefit to the cargo businesses in Nigeria, the Port, as is now expanded, brings more importance to both the host state, Rivers State, Nigeria and the Sub Saharan region.
1. Job creation: The port provides employment opportunities for thousands of people, both directly and indirectly. From port workers to truck drivers, customs officials, and logistics providers, Onne Port supports a wide range of jobs and livelihoods.
2. Infrastructure development: The presence of Onne Port has led to the development of infrastructure in the surrounding area, including roads, warehouses, and other facilities that support the smooth operation of the port, and enhance connectivity to other parts of the country.
3. Foreign exchange earnings: The port generates foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria, through the export of oil and gas products, as well as other goods. This helps to strengthen the country’s balance of payments and support its currency.
4. Regional trade hub: Onne Port serves as a key gateway for trade within the West African region, connecting Nigeria to other countries in the sub-region. This helps to promote regional integration and economic cooperation.
Overall, the coming on board of Ibeto Group to the Port, plays a vital role in the economic development of Nigeria, and the West African region, and its continued growth by the government of Nigeria and it’s efficiency are essential for the country’s prosperity.
