Nigerdock, the developers of Snake Island Integrated Free Zone (SIIFZ) in Lagos, have officially announced the establishment of Transocean Coatings FZE, a new affiliate of Transocean Coatings Nigeria Limited. The announcement was made in a statement signed by Kevin Johnson-Azuara, Chief Marketing Officer at Nigerdock, and marks a significant expansion in the Free Zone’s industrial portfolio.
The signing ceremony took place earlier this week and was attended by top executives from both Nigerdock and Transocean. Maher Jarmakani, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerdock, said the inclusion of Transocean Coatings FZE aligns with the company’s broader strategy of attracting global players to the free trade zone.
“We are delighted to welcome Transocean Coatings Nigeria to our economic zone and look forward to a partnership that will significantly contribute to the advancement of innovation, commerce, and economic growth across the region,” said Jarmakani during the event.
He explained that Transocean’s entry into the SIIFZ strengthens its expanding list of multi-sectoral businesses operating in the zone. These include companies involved in maritime services, logistics, energy, finance, and heavy industry, all benefiting from the zone’s infrastructure and international trade advantages.
On his part, Oliver Birkett, Chief Executive Officer of Transocean Coatings Nigeria Limited, noted that the new facility represents a big step in the company’s long-term vision for Africa. He said, “With Transocean Coatings’ presence in over 20 countries, our newest facility within SIIFZ’s strategic location increases our global footprint and enables us to better serve our clients with increased efficiency and proximity. It also reinforces our dedication to the region’s infrastructure and energy sectors.”
Birkett emphasised that Transocean’s operations within SIIFZ will be geared towards improving service delivery in West Africa’s marine, onshore, and offshore industries, with plans to eventually produce protective coatings locally.
Established in 2005, the Snake Island Integrated Free Zone was created to support industrial growth and regional trade by offering a unique environment for businesses. The zone provides companies with access to simplified regulatory processes, tax incentives, and a central logistics hub connected through the Snake Island Port. These features are designed to improve the ease of doing business and help companies access regional and global markets.
The addition of Transocean Coatings FZE is expected to enhance the zone’s appeal to international investors and deepen Nigeria’s industrial capabilities in the protective coatings and marine services sectors. Analysts say the partnership between Nigerdock and Transocean reflects the growing trend of global companies expanding their footprints in strategic African locations like Nigeria.
Transocean Coatings Nigeria Limited is the Nigerian arm of the Transocean Coatings Association, a global group known for providing industrial protective coating solutions. The association is recognised for its work on marine vessels, offshore platforms, and infrastructure assets, with decades of experience across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and now, a stronger presence in West Africa.
The SIIFZ continues to position itself as a leading hub for industrial and commercial activities in the Gulf of Guinea. Its management team has stated that new additions like Transocean Coatings FZE will help diversify Nigeria’s industrial base and support the country’s drive towards economic self-sufficiency, particularly in marine infrastructure and local manufacturing.
As more international companies enter the Nigerian market through special economic zones, stakeholders are optimistic about increased job creation, technology transfer, and economic growth driven by strategic investments like this.
