The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT), operated by APM Terminals Nigeria, has commenced the construction of a 713-metre flood drainage system in Onne Community, located in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. This major infrastructure project is aimed at tackling long-standing flooding, stagnant water, and sanitation problems in the community.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the company said the drainage project aligns with two of its four core Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillars: health and environment, and infrastructure development. According to the company, once completed, the drainage system will bring lasting relief to residents who have suffered from persistent flooding, especially during the rainy season.
The Managing Director of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr Jeethu Jose, described the initiative as another demonstration of the terminal operator’s commitment to the welfare of its host community. He said the project will significantly improve health and safety in Onne, and forms part of WACT’s broader agenda to contribute positively to the community’s development.
Jose highlighted several past interventions by the company in Onne, including educational, environmental, and health projects. He mentioned that 50 students from the community are currently benefiting from the company’s university scholarship scheme, with an additional 30 students expected to join this year.
Other projects cited by the MD include the installation of a 10 KVA solar power system at the Model Primary Health Care Centre, and the training of over 300 students and women in the production of eco-friendly reusable diapers and sanitary pads. Jose also noted that the company is preparing to launch a plastic recycling plant in the coming months, which he said will not only reduce environmental pollution but also provide economic opportunities for the community.
“As of today, we have carried out several initiatives aimed at continuous community improvement,” Jose said. “And today, we are here to perform the groundbreaking of Phase 1 of a 713-meter flood drainage project, which we believe will solve the issue of persistent flooding along Olumba Road.”
Also present at the event was the Community Relations Manager of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Mr Justin Okwuofu, who shared the story behind the selection of the drainage project. He said the idea emerged from a participatory needs assessment carried out with members of the Onne community.
“We embarked on a full participatory rural appraisal process—what we in development circles call a transect walk, but what we at WACT call a ‘Gemba’,” Okwuofu explained. “We spent about a week walking through the community with local residents to understand their challenges, and this drainage project was identified as a top priority.”
He expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation and promised that WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria would continue to partner with them to deliver more impactful projects in the future.
Residents of Onne have long complained about the effects of seasonal flooding, which often damages roads, homes, and public infrastructure. With this new development, many are hopeful that the quality of life in the community will significantly improve, especially as the rainy season approaches.
WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria has emerged as one of the most community-focused companies operating in the Niger Delta, balancing its core business operations with meaningful investment in people and infrastructure.
