By Obiabin Onukwugha
Maritime industry stakeholders on Monday gathered at the PTML Terminal at Tin Can Port of Lagos, for
the official commissioning of MV GREAT LAGOS, the largest container-Roll-On-Roll-Off (Ro-Ro) ship ever
to visit the African sub-region.
MV Great Lagos, is owned by the Grimaldi Group. It was learnt that the vessel, built in 2023 and
currently sailing under the flag of Italy arrived at the port on Dec 1, at about 05:58 UTC.
The ship which was launched in April this year, is a marvel of modern engineering and environmental
consciousness, stretching 250 metres in length with a beam of 38 metres and a weight of over 45,000
tonnes, according to the builders.
The company also informed that the vessel has the capacity to transport 4.7 kilometres of rolling freight,
2,500 car equivalent units, and 2,000 20-foot equivalent units.
Speaking on the ship, the Managing Director of PTML, Ascanio Russo said the MV Great Lagos 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. Russo said the vessel sets a new benchmark
in the shipping industry.
Russo commended the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for its support towards receiving the vessel.
He said the arrival of the vessel is a landmark event for the newly established Ministry of Marine and
Blue Economy.
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Russo added that the visit showcased the terminal’s advanced capabilities and its role as a leading
multipurpose logistics hub in the region.
According to him, the vessel's arrival at the Lagos Port is a testament to the port’s capability to handle
vessels of such magnitude, further positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global shipping industry.
“What truly sets the ‘Great Lagos’ apart is its compliance with the highest environmental standards. In
an age where environmental sustainability is not just a preference but also a necessity, the ship leads
the way in eco-friendly maritime transport. Its advanced design and technology significantly reduce the
environmental impact, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and protect marine
ecosystems.
“By extending its Berth 11, equipping it with deeper berths, expanded storage areas, and acquired state-
of-the-art cargo handling equipment,” he added.
“This transformation positions PTML as one of the most advanced logistics terminals in West Africa,
capable of handling a diverse range of cargo types including bulk, break-bulk, containerised, and RORO
cargoes.
“The seamless integration of vessels and terminal activities at PTML is a clear indication of Nigeria’s
dedication to advancing its maritime infrastructure while prioritizing environmental responsibility," he
stated.
Dignitaries that graced a ceremony to receive the vessel included; the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, the
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Babafemi
Hamzat.
Others included; ACG Bello Jybo (representing the Comptroller General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi),
Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Director General of NIMASA, President General of
Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents
(ANLCA) among others.
