Danish Queen Commits to Expanded Investment in Nigeria’s Port Infrastructure

Queen Mary of Denmark has pledged deeper investment in Nigeria’s port infrastructure following a visit to APM Terminals Apapa, the country’s busiest port, underscoring Denmark’s long-term commercial interest in West Africa’s largest economy.

The monarch, on a two-day visit, toured the Lagos terminal on Wednesday alongside Jens Ole Bach Hansen, Denmark’s ambassador to Nigeria. APM Terminals, operated by Danish logistics giant A.P. Moller–Maersk, has upgraded its Apapa facilities to handle larger vessels and improve efficiency.

Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic importance, the Queen said:

“Nigeria, where we run terminals in Onne and Apapa, is a core market for APM Terminals. We aim to invest further in infrastructure that promotes sustainable growth, job creation, and stronger connectivity to global markets.”

During her tour, Queen Mary observed how the terminal partners with local firms to recycle rubber and plastic waste into valuable products, reinforcing a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.

Known for championing gender equality, the Queen also engaged with female equipment operators at the terminal. Steen Knudsen, Nigeria CEO for APM Terminals, noted the company’s initiatives to recruit women into traditionally male-dominated roles, including truck driving and mechanical maintenance.

The visit featured a stop at the terminal’s Equipment Simulation Room used for training operators.

A day earlier, Queen Mary met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties between Denmark and Nigeria.