The EA Centaurus, a container ship owned by COSCO Shipping, has made waves with its impressive capacity of 7,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). This mega vessel measures 272 meters in length, 43 meters in width, and has a draft of 14.3 meters.
According to information from Marinetraffic.com, the EA Centaurus flies the flag of Singapore and recently departed the Lagos port en route to the Lekki port in Nigeria.
This arrival has sparked excitement as the EA Centaurus surpasses the 6,606 TEU container ship, The Kota Cantik, which arrived at the Apapa wharf last year. Managed by Pacific International Lines (PIL), The Kota Cantik boasts a draught of 11.6 meters, a length overall (LOA) of 300 meters, and a beam of 40 meters.
The significance of the EA Centaurus’s arrival in Nigeria lies in the potential investment opportunities it brings to the nation. The vessel’s cargo includes essential economic commodities, creating a promising opportunity for growth and expansion in the region.
Rex Wang, the Managing Director of COSCO Shipping Lines Nigeria, expressed optimism about the economic prospects associated with the vessel’s arrival. He highlighted the company’s expanding services in West Africa and anticipated an increase in exports of commodities like minerals, sesame seeds, and cashews.
Steen Knudsen, the Terminal Manager at APM Terminals Apapa, emphasized the economic impact of receiving such a large vessel. He noted that accommodating larger ships like the EA Centaurus allows for greater economies of scale, potentially reducing import costs for Nigeria. This development reflects the country’s growing trade capacity and APM Terminals’ commitment to supporting this growth.
Overall, the arrival of the EA Centaurus signifies a significant milestone for both COSCO Shipping and the Nigerian maritime industry, paving the way for increased trade opportunities and economic development in the region.
