APM Terminals Apapa recorded a 6% increase in export volumes during the first half of 2026, highlighting stronger activity in Nigeria’s non-oil export sector and efforts to improve access to international markets.
APM Terminals Apapa Managing Director Kamal Alhraishat attributed the growth to the resilience of Nigerian exporters and operational improvements introduced at the terminal. He said exports through the facility have maintained a positive growth trajectory over the past five years.
The terminal has introduced dedicated export lanes at its gate to speed up cargo processing and improve access for exporters. It also uses rail connectivity to provide alternatives to road transport, helping reduce exposure to congestion around Lagos and Apapa.
The Lagos–Moniya (Ibadan) rail connection operates three times a week, while the Ebute Metta rail corridor provides another route for moving export cargo from different parts of Lagos to the terminal. APM Terminals said these connections can improve cargo predictability and reduce transit times.
Major export commodities handled at the terminal include soybeans, cashew nuts, cocoa, hibiscus flowers and solid minerals. The growth in export volumes comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify its trade beyond oil and strengthen the competitiveness of its agricultural and mineral exports.
APM Terminals Apapa is also using its Exporters Forum to bring together exporters, government agencies, shipping lines and logistics providers to identify bottlenecks and improve processes across the export supply chain.
The terminal said continued improvements in cargo handling, inland connectivity and stakeholder coordination will be important for supporting Nigeria’s export growth and improving the efficiency of its links to global markets.