Paragraph 1: Incident Overview and Initial Reports
On Friday, reports emerged of a fire aboard the cargo ship CHANG MIN, docked at the ENL Consortium terminal in Apapa Port, Lagos, Nigeria. The Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA) initially reported the incident, indicating that the vessel carried a diverse cargo, including CNG trucks, wooden products, tires, and other potentially flammable materials. This raised immediate concerns about the scale of the potential fire and its impact on the vessel, cargo, and the surrounding port environment. The initial reports painted a picture of a significant emergency, prompting a swift response from the terminal operator, ENL Consortium.
Paragraph 2: ENL Consortium’s Clarification and Response
ENL Consortium, in a subsequent statement, clarified the nature of the incident, emphasizing that there was no actual fire on board the CHANG MIN. Instead, the incident stemmed from smoke emanating from one of the ship’s hatches. ENL’s emergency response team promptly identified the source of the smoke and effectively contained it before it escalated into a full-blown fire. The rapid response and adherence to established safety protocols prevented any significant damage or harm. The company confirmed that no personnel were injured, and the cargo, equipment, and terminal infrastructure remained unaffected by the incident.
Paragraph 3: Emphasis on Safety, Operational Excellence, and Emergency Preparedness
ENL Consortium underscored its unwavering commitment to safety, operational excellence, and emergency preparedness. The incident served to highlight the company’s robust safety culture and the efficiency of its emergency response systems. The swift and professional handling of the situation demonstrated ENL’s preparedness for such events, ensuring that potential hazards are swiftly addressed and mitigated. This commitment to safety extends beyond immediate incident response to encompass a proactive approach to risk management and prevention.
Paragraph 4: Addressing Inaccurate Reporting and Sensationalism
ENL Consortium expressed concern over what it deemed inaccurate and exaggerated initial reports of the incident. The company urged the public and media outlets to exercise caution and seek verified information before disseminating news, emphasizing the importance of responsible reporting. Sensationalizing incidents, particularly those that are effectively managed and pose no significant threat, can lead to unnecessary alarm and misrepresent the actual situation. ENL stressed the need for accurate and factual reporting to maintain public trust and avoid undue panic.
Paragraph 5: Reaffirming Operational Status and Safety Record
The terminal operator confirmed that port operations at the ENL Terminal remained safe, stable, and fully operational following the incident. The company highlighted its position as a leading port terminal operator in Nigeria, handling a substantial volume of cargo annually while maintaining a strong track record of safety and efficiency. This reaffirms ENL’s commitment to upholding high operational standards and ensuring the smooth flow of cargo through the port despite unforeseen events.
Paragraph 6: Continued Dedication to Safety and Global Standards
ENL Consortium reiterated its dedication to ensuring the safety and protection of both personnel and cargo. The company emphasized its adherence to global safety standards, which guide its operations and emergency response procedures. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to risk management, aiming to prevent incidents and mitigate their impact should they occur. By upholding these stringent safety standards, ENL strives to maintain a secure and efficient port environment for all stakeholders.
