The Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) in Rivers State, Nigeria, achieved a significant milestone in West African maritime history by welcoming the Kota Oasis, the first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered containership to call at a West African port. This arrival signifies a pivotal step towards sustainable shipping practices within the region and highlights OMT’s dedication to environmentally responsible port operations. The Kota Oasis, owned and operated by Pacific International Lines (PIL), a Singaporean shipping company, showcases cutting-edge technology and underscores the industry’s growing commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
The Kota Oasis boasts impressive specifications, measuring 260 meters in length with a gross registered tonnage of 78,501 and a carrying capacity of 8,350 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). This substantial capacity allows for efficient transport of large volumes of cargo, further enhancing trade connectivity between Asia and Nigeria. The vessel’s dual-fuel technology enables it to operate on both LNG and traditional diesel fuel, providing flexibility while minimizing its reliance on more polluting fuels. Furthermore, its advanced exhaust gas recycling systems significantly reduce methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. These features, combined with other fuel-efficiency enhancements, position the Kota Oasis as a leader in environmentally conscious shipping.
The arrival of the Kota Oasis was met with enthusiasm from key stakeholders in the Nigerian maritime sector. OMT’s Managing Director, Nicolo Scannavini, hailed the event as transformative, emphasizing the vessel’s role as a “game changer” for trade between Asia and Nigeria. He highlighted the ship’s technological advancements and its symbolic significance in the transition towards cleaner shipping solutions. Scannavini reiterated OMT’s commitment to attracting more technologically advanced vessels and expressed pride in hosting the Kota Oasis. He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Nigerian Ports Authority and its Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, in facilitating the smooth berthing of the vessel. OMT currently serves two major global shipping lines, PIL and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), and actively seeks to expand partnerships with both international and national entities.
PIL, the owner and operator of the Kota Oasis, underscored its long-term commitment to the Nigerian market through this strategic vessel deployment. Dhruv Kohli, Head of Operations, Logistics, and Procurement for PIL’s Regional Office, emphasized the company’s ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with the Kota Oasis representing a significant step towards this goal. The vessel is part of a larger fleet modernization program aimed at incorporating environmentally friendly technologies. Kohli highlighted the significance of Nigeria within PIL’s South West Africa Service rotation, underscoring the country’s strategic importance in their global network. He further elaborated on the vessel’s technical capabilities, including its dual-fuel engine and 40,000-horsepower output, which contributes to faster delivery times and more sustainable logistics operations.
The arrival of the Kota Oasis reinforces the importance of Onne Port as a critical hub for PIL’s operations in Nigeria. This strategic deployment not only facilitates enhanced direct trade routes between Nigeria and Asia, including transshipment to Singapore and direct service to China, but also strengthens PIL’s commitment to both Nigeria’s economic growth and environmental well-being. By optimizing delivery times and promoting sustainable logistics practices, PIL aims to contribute positively to the Nigerian economy while minimizing its environmental impact. This commitment aligns with the broader industry trend towards decarbonization and reinforces the importance of sustainable practices in global trade.
The Nigeria Customs Service also welcomed the arrival of the Kota Oasis and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting trade facilitation and ease of doing business at Onne Port. Deputy Comptroller John Ejeh, representing the Onne Port Command, expressed the service’s ongoing support for OMT, PIL, and other stakeholders operating within the port. This collaborative approach emphasizes the importance of streamlined customs procedures and efficient port operations in facilitating international trade and promoting economic growth. The combined efforts of OMT, PIL, and the Nigeria Customs Service demonstrate a shared commitment to fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment in Nigeria, while simultaneously prioritizing environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
