APM Terminals Apapa, Nigeria, commissioned seven new reach stackers and two empty handlers this month as part of an investment programme to increase capacity and improve efficiency.
The terminal operator said the programme is expected to reduce vessel waiting times and more effectively handle increased import deliveries.
The new equipment, which brings the total container handling fleet to 17, was commissioned at a brief ceremony led by the terminal’s Chief Operating Officer, Steen Knudsen.
“The purchase of this equipment is part of a process to overhaul and modernize our fleet,” said Knudsen. “This will enable APM Terminals Apapa to service its customers in an efficient and consistent manner. More equipment is expected in the coming months, including terminal trucks and new RTGs (rubber tyred gantry cranes).”
Representatives of Patterson Simons, a specialist in sales and service of lifting and handling equipment in West Africa, also attended, and remained on site to assist with the commissioning of the equipment.
Earlier this year, the terminal commissioned two additional Mobile Harbour Cranes to handle increased trade volumes into Nigeria. The terminal currently operates a fleet of 13 Mobile Harbour Cranes.
