The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PTML, Ascanio Rusco, said this during a ceremony to mark the reception of the vessel in Apapa, Lagos on Monday.
Rusco added that the vessel is the second of the G5-class of ships recently launched by the Grimaldi Group and named after Nigeria’s commercial capital, which it has served for many decades.
“Today marks a significant milestone, not only for PTML and Grimaldi but for Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. We are gathered here on board this magnificent ship to celebrate the maiden call of the ‘MV Great Lagos’, a majestic vessel in the new G5 class of RORO multipurpose ships
“The naming of this vessel is not merely a coincidence; it is a deliberate and meaningful choice that reflects the deep and enduring connection between the Grimaldi Group and the port city of Lagos,” he said.
He said the vessels with a deadweight of over 45,000 tonnes can carry 2,500 car equivalent units and 2,000 twenty-foot equivalent.
“The new ultramodern mega-ship is a marvel of modern engineering and environmental consciousness, stretching 290 metres in length with a beam of 38 metres and deadweight of over 45,000 tones. The ship can transport 4.7 kilometres of rolling freight, 2,500 car equivalent units, and 2,000 20-foot equivalent units.
“This vessel stands as a testament to our enthusiasm to achieve the minimum environmental impact. Technological advancements allow for a reduction of CO2 emissions by up to 43 per cent per ton transported. The vessel is a beacon of sustainable maritime transport, setting new industry standards”, he said.
Russo added that for more than six decades, the Grimaldi Group has been a cornerstone in the development of trade and maritime relations with Nigeria, a journey of mutual growth, understanding, and unwavering commitment.
“The arrival of the vessel is not just an addition to our fleet but a reaffirmation of our devotion to the Nigerian economy and its vibrant economic capital. The vessel is amongst the largest ships ever built in its class. This is not just an upgrade; it is a leap into the future of maritime transport and we are proud that we are witnessing this in Nigeria. But the greatness of the “MV Great Lagos” is not measured solely by her size or capacity,” he explained.
The PTML boss added that in the last year alone, the terminal had invested over $20m to upgrade our facilities to receive this beautiful ship.
“We have been extending our quay by over 40 meters while strengthening it to enable us to receive and operate a new Mobile Harbour Crane. All of this is to accommodate the vessel. This investment underscores our strive to achieve operational excellence while delivering efficient and cost-effective logistics services to the broader Nigerian economy and its people. It reinforces our position as a key player in the maritime sector and confirms our readiness to take the port of Lagos on larger roles in the global trading community,” Rusco concluded.
Earlier, the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, said the ministry would strive to create the enabling environment, develop policies, and offer the necessary support to grow the maritime sector.
Oyetola said the successful berthing of the vessel testifies to the dedication of the Nigerian Ports Authority and PTML to enhance efficiency at the port.
“We would help the present administration in achieving its renewed hope agenda. These are necessary to be able to attain the goals and enhance the numerous benefits in the sector.
“The ministry in line with its mandate will continue to pursue vigorously, the development of shipping, maritime, and related sectors to ensure sustainable development,” Oyetola said.
Also speaking, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the visit of the MV Great Lagos to Tincan Island Port is an expression of confidence of the international community in Nigeria.
