APM Terminals Kano has recorded a major boost in operations, with a 51 per cent increase in Through Bill of Lading (TBL) volumes for the first half of 2025, covering January to June. The company announced this growth in a statement on Wednesday, describing it as a significant milestone for the inland terminal’s performance.
According to the Terminal Manager of APM Terminals Kano, Mr. Steen Knudsen, the increase reflects the combined efforts of the Kano operations team and the Apapa team to ensure smooth and efficient cargo movement between the hinterland and the Apapa port in Lagos. He noted that the collaboration has been key in moving higher cargo volumes seamlessly, contributing to improved service delivery for customers.
“When compared with the 2024 half-year period from January to June, we observed a notable percentage increase of 51 per cent in TBL volumes in 2025,” Knudsen said. He added that the achievement was made possible through deliberate teamwork, operational efficiency, and strategic planning.
Highlighting a major operational record, Knudsen disclosed that in May 2025, the Kano terminal handled the highest number of gate-out units since January 2024. That month, the terminal processed 139 container units at the out-gate, surpassing the monthly volumes handled in the same period last year. He said this performance underlines the terminal’s dedication to excellence and its ability to meet growing cargo demands.
“Kano’s gate-out performance in May marked the highest monthly total since January 2024, highlighting a significant milestone,” Knudsen explained. “This achievement reflects the unwavering dedication of our Kano team to operational excellence. By implementing lean methodologies, standardising processes, and eliminating inefficiencies, the team has successfully enhanced terminal performance and set a new benchmark for success.”
Knudsen further stated that the recent surge in volumes is a direct result of strategic investments made at the Kano facility. These include the refurbishment of office spaces, improvement of yard infrastructure, and upgrades to yard equipment. He explained that these developments have strengthened the terminal’s capacity to handle larger cargo volumes and improved working conditions for staff.
To further improve efficiency and align with global sustainability standards, APM Terminals Kano has completed major facility upgrades, such as renovating entry and exit gates and improving security offices to boost both operational performance and safety. The terminal is also planning to install solar power systems to provide energy for gate and yard lighting. This initiative is part of the company’s “Go Green” sustainability strategy, aimed at cutting carbon emissions and reducing environmental impact.
Industry observers note that the performance of APM Terminals Kano is a strong indicator of Nigeria’s growing inland port capacity, especially as the country seeks to improve its logistics network and reduce congestion at seaports. The rise in cargo volumes suggests increasing confidence among shippers in using inland terminals for import and export processes, reducing the time and cost of transporting goods across the country.
With its improved facilities, operational upgrades, and sustainability plans, APM Terminals Kano is positioning itself as a key hub for cargo movement in northern Nigeria. The terminal’s strong half-year performance also signals that more growth may be recorded in the second half of 2025, especially if trade volumes remain strong and planned infrastructure projects are completed on schedule.
