APM Terminals Apapa earns ISO 28000:2007 Certification

APM Terminals Apapa Ltd has achieved ISO 28000:2007 Security Certification, issued by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance (LRQA) Ltd,  a statement issued by APM’s Media Consultant, Mr Bolaji Akinola, said on Monday.

The ISO Certification is a security management system including those aspects critical to the security assurance of the supply chain, specifically the handling of containerised cargo.

According to the statement, APM Terminals Apapa Ltd operates the busiest container terminal in West Africa.

“This distinction reflects the commitment of the company, part of the APM Terminals Global Terminal Network, to perform at the highest international standards and recognised best practices in theft prevention, cargo security and supply chain integrity,’’ the statement said.

It noted that the management of the terminal was determined to achieve higher security levels in the interests of the country and customers.

“While global trade poses security risks ranging from theft to terrorism, this ISO certification shows that we have identified the critical aspects of the security of the cargo within the APM Terminals, Apapa.

“ We have set in place the security policies, procedures and controls required to manage and secure safe terminal operations,’’ the Managing Director, APM Terminals Apapa Ltd, Mr Andrew Dawes, said.

The Head of Security, APM Terminals Apapa, Mr Ayo Olatubosun, said, “The United States Coast Guard and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) approved and commended the security measures for cargo handling at the terminal.

Olatubosun said the management was determined to achieve higher security levels in the interests of the nation and its customers.

APM Terminals Apapa is the largest of the three container terminals serving the Lagos Port complex, handling about 700,000 TEUs (containers) in 2014.

It handles more than half of all containerised imports into Lagos.

The management had invested 350 million dollars (N68.9 billion) into its expansion programme since 2006.

As a result of this, the container volumes had doubled and productivity had been increasing significantly, with waiting time for vessels berthing eliminated.

The terminal also makes use of a rail service, established in August 2013, running weekly to Kano, about 960 km (600 miles) from Lagos.