OMT welcomes West Africa’s first LNG-powered container ship

In a landmark moment for Nigeria’s maritime industry, the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) on Friday received Kota Oasis, West Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered container ship.

The vessel, flagged in Singapore and operated by Pacific International Lines (PIL), is the first of its kind to berth in the region and represents a major leap toward sustainable shipping practices.

At 260 meters long, the Kota Oasis has a Gross Registered Tonnage of 78,501 and can carry up to 8,350 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).

It features dual-fuel technology that allows it to operate on both LNG and diesel, alongside advanced emission-reducing systems designed to lower its environmental footprint.

Speaking at a reception to mark the vessel’s arrival, OMT Managing Director Mr. Nicolo Scannavini described the event as transformative for regional trade and environmental innovation.

“This vessel is not only an engineering milestone but a symbol of our commitment to green port operations.

It strengthens our connection with Asia and sets the pace for cleaner shipping in Nigeria,” Scannavini stated.

He added that OMT currently hosts two major international shipping lines—PIL and the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)—and is open to expanding its partnerships.

He also thanked the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and its Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, for facilitating the smooth docking of the vessel.

Also present was Mr. Dhruv Kohli, Head of Operations, Logistics, and Procurement for PIL’s Regional Office, who emphasized PIL’s commitment to Nigeria as part of its global carbon neutrality strategy.

“This ship is one of many in our upgraded fleet aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Nigeria is a vital part of our South West Africa Service rotation, and Onne Port is critical for our Asia-Africa trade routes,” Kohli said.

He noted that the vessel’s dual-fuel engine, boasting 40,000 horsepower, enables more efficient and sustainable shipping, with faster transit times and direct connectivity from Nigeria to Asia, including Singapore and China.

Deputy Comptroller of the Onne Port Command, Nigeria Customs Service, John Ejeh, reaffirmed the Service’s support for OMT and PIL, pledging continued facilitation of trade and smooth port operations.

Other regulatory bodies—including the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)—also commended OMT and PIL for the historic achievement and reiterated their commitment to advancing innovation in Nigeria’s maritime sector.