Mediterranean Shipping Company has entered into a 45-year sub-concession agreement with Nigerdock to develop and operate a new container terminal at Snake Island Port in Lagos, a move expected to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and attract fresh investment into the sector.
The agreement grants the Switzerland-based shipping giant the right to build, manage, and maintain an exclusive container terminal covering about 30 hectares within the Snake Island Port. According to a statement issued by MSC on Thursday, the project is scheduled for completion by 2028.
Plans for the terminal include a 910-metre quay equipped with six Ship-to-Shore cranes, two main ship berths, and three additional berths for barges. The facility will also feature a channel draft of up to 18 metres, enabling it to handle larger vessels and increase cargo-handling efficiency.
Commenting on the partnership, Nigerdock Chief Executive Officer Maher Jarmakani described the agreement as a significant milestone in the company’s collaboration with MSC.
“We are thrilled to take this step forward in our partnership with MSC to develop a world-class container terminal within Snake Island Port,” Jarmakani said, noting that the project will strengthen Nigeria’s logistics capacity and draw substantial foreign direct investment into the country’s maritime sector.
For MSC, the project forms part of its broader strategy to expand its footprint in Africa and enhance service delivery to customers across the region.
MSC President Diego Aponte said the new facility will improve port operations and position Snake Island as a major hub for international shipping.
“Completing this key phase in the development of Snake Island Container Terminal with Nigerdock and our partners demonstrates MSC Group’s commitment to delivering excellent service to customers in Nigeria and throughout Africa,” Aponte stated.
He added that the project would also create employment opportunities for Nigerians while boosting economic activity linked to shipping and trade.
Snake Island Port, which covers approximately 85 hectares, is currently operated by Nigerdock and consists of three terminals that support cargo handling and logistics services. The port has played a growing role in expanding the capacity of the wider Lagos port system and supporting maritime operations in Nigeria’s busiest commercial city.
Industry observers say the new agreement could further strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key maritime gateway in West Africa, while helping to improve efficiency in cargo movement and logistics across the region.
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