LNG-Powered 'Kota Oasis' Makes Historic Docking at Onne Terminal, Marking West Africa’s First Green Containership Arrival

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By John Ollor Obe 



Over the weekend, the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) in Rivers State welcomed the Kota Oasis, a Singapore-flagged containership powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG)—the first of its kind to dock in West Africa.

In a statement released on Sunday, the terminal’s management highlighted the vessel’s arrival as a major advancement in eco-friendly maritime operations. Operated and owned by Pacific International Lines (PIL), the ship's docking marks a key step toward sustainable shipping practices in the region.

“The arrival of Kota Oasis underscores OMT’s commitment to green port operations and reinforces its role as a leading hub for containerised trade in Nigeria,” the statement noted.

Measuring 260 meters in length, the Kota Oasis has a gross registered tonnage of 78,501 and can carry up to 8,350 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), according to the terminal's announcement.

The ship, which docked at OMT at 10:00 a.m., is equipped with dual-fuel systems that allow it to operate on both LNG and diesel. It also features advanced exhaust gas recycling technology designed to cut methane emissions, along with other innovations that improve energy efficiency and environmental safety.

During a reception held in honor of the vessel and its crew, OMT Managing Director Mr. Nicolo Scannavini described its arrival as a milestone moment.

“This vessel will be a game changer for trade connectivity between Asia and Nigeria.

It is not only an engineering marvel, but also a testament to the shift toward cleaner, greener shipping solutions.

We are proud to host the Kota Oasis and look forward to more technologically advanced vessels calling at OMT,” Scannavini stated.

He also mentioned that OMT currently partners with two global shipping giants—PIL and Mediterranean Shipping Company—and is eager to expand its network to include more national and international stakeholders.

Scannavini further acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and its Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, in ensuring the seamless berthing of the vessel.

Mr. Dhruv Kohli, Head of Operations, Logistics, and Procurement for PIL’s Regional Office, reiterated the company’s dedication to long-term operations in Nigeria.

“This vessel is part of a larger fleet upgrade aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

We’re proud to bring one of the most advanced ships in the world to Nigeria, a country that plays a vital role in our South West Africa Service rotation,” Kohli said.

He also detailed the ship’s features, including its 40,000-horsepower engine and dual-fuel technology, emphasizing its role in enhancing direct shipping links from Nigeria to Asia, particularly Singapore and China.

“Onne is a critical port for us. This deployment supports faster delivery times and sustainable logistics operations, strengthening our commitment to Nigeria’s economy and environment,” he added.

Representing the Onne Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Deputy Comptroller John Ejeh voiced continued support for trade operations and business efficiency at the port.

“We have always supported OMT, PIL, and other key stakeholders.

We remain committed to providing the assistance needed to ensure successful operations at the port,” Ejeh stated.



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