The shipping industry in Nigeria is a vital driver of the economy, moving more than 90% of the country’s international trade. With access to major ports like Apapa, Tin Can Island, Onne, and Calabar, shipping companies in Nigeria connect local businesses to international markets and support the movement of goods across sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing.
This guide profiles the top shipping firms in Nigeria, including global operators and indigenous companies that entrepreneurs can rely on. It also outlines the key regulatory agencies, examines the challenges in the sector, and provides practical guidance for choosing the right shipping partners to grow your business.
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Key Takeaways
- Shipping drives over 90% of Nigeria’s trade, making it essential for business operations and economic growth.
- Entrepreneurs can choose between established global shipping companies and trusted indigenous Nigerian shipping companies.
- Understanding port operations, regulations, and logistics is key to moving goods efficiently and avoiding costly delays.
- Partnering with the right shipping company positions businesses for growth in Nigeria’s expanding regional and international markets.
Overview of the Shipping Industry in Nigeria
Nigeria’s shipping industry is the largest in West Africa, managing over 1.3 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of container traffic annually through its major seaports. According to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Lagos ports complex, comprising Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, handles nearly 70% of the country’s cargo volume.
The sector is important to Nigeria’s oil exports, with about 95% of crude oil shipments transported by sea, making shipping crucial not just for trade but for national revenue. Beyond oil, the shipping industry supports over 500,000 jobs, including dockworkers, freight forwarders, and marine service providers, significantly contributing to Nigeria’s employment rates.
Despite its strategic importance, the industry faces challenges such as congestion, inefficient customs processes, and infrastructure gaps. However, initiatives like the Lekki Deep Seaport project, expected to handle up to 2.5 million TEUs annually, and the digitalisation of cargo clearing processes are setting the stage for a more efficient, competitive shipping environment.
As Nigeria strengthens its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), shipping companies will play an even bigger role in driving regional trade and economic growth.
Top Shipping Companies in Nigeria
The shipping industry in Nigeria features a mix of established international operators and trusted indigenous firms. Together, they handle container shipping, oil and gas logistics, inland waterways, and freight forwarding services that drive the country’s economy.
Here are the leading shipping companies that entrepreneurs and business owners can rely on.
1. Maersk Nigeria Limited
Maersk Nigeria is the local arm of A.P. Møller–Maersk Group, a Danish shipping and logistics giant founded in 1904. The Nigerian operations started formally in the 1980s as Maersk Line Nigeria Limited. The global Maersk Group is led by Vincent Clerc, CEO of A.P. Møller–Maersk as of 2024.
In Nigeria, Maersk operates primarily from Lagos ports (Apapa and Tin Can Island), Onne Port, and Port Harcourt, offering container shipping, freight forwarding, supply chain management, and integrated logistics services. They provide full-service solutions, including customs clearance support and inland transport for businesses moving goods across Nigeria and West Africa.
Maersk Nigeria is recognised for its strong digital tracking systems, customer support, and involvement in trade facilitation partnerships with government agencies.
2. Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC Nigeria)
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) was founded in 1970 in Geneva, Switzerland, by Gianluigi Aponte, who still plays a significant leadership role as Chairman. The global CEO is Soren Toft.
MSC began its Nigerian operations in the 1990s, establishing a strong presence at Lagos ports (Apapa and Tin Can Island) and Port Harcourt. MSC Nigeria offers containerised cargo shipping, reefer services for temperature-sensitive goods, and project cargo solutions.
It operates weekly schedules connecting Nigeria to Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Asia. MSC is known for its extensive African coverage, making it a preferred option for businesses targeting intra-African trade under AfCFTA frameworks.
3. Grimaldi Nigeria (Grimaldi Lines)
Grimaldi Group, based in Naples, Italy, was established in 1947 by the Grimaldi family. Today, it is headed by Emanuele Grimaldi, who serves as President and Managing Director.
Grimaldi established its Nigerian subsidiary, Grimaldi Nigeria, in the early 1990s. It specialises in RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) services, which involve shipping vehicles, trucks, heavy machinery, and industrial equipment between Europe and West Africa.
Grimaldi operates out of Lagos (specifically the PTML Terminal at Tin Can Island), offering services that cover general cargo, containers, and special logistics for auto manufacturers and heavy industries. It is the leading shipping operator for Nigerian car imports.
4. CMA CGM Nigeria
CMA CGM, founded in 1978 in Marseille, France, is led globally by Rodolphe Saadé, who serves as Chairman and CEO. CMA CGM became one of the top three largest container shipping companies worldwide and established Nigerian operations in the late 1990s.
CMA CGM Nigeria operates through Lagos (Apapa and Tin Can Island) and Port Harcourt, offering container shipping services, digital cargo tracking, and logistics solutions. They are known for their innovation in digitising supply chains, offering online booking, documentation, and cargo visibility tools to Nigerian clients.
CMA CGM supports trade between Nigeria and key regions like Europe, Asia, and North America, and has partnerships with local logistics companies for last-mile inland delivery.
5. Pacific International Lines (PIL Nigeria)
Pacific International Lines (PIL) was founded in 1967 in Singapore by the late Chang Yun Chung, who held the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest CEO until his passing in 2020. The company is now run by Teo Siong Seng as Executive Chairman.
PIL Nigeria has been active since the early 2000s, focusing on connecting Nigeria with Asian markets, especially China, India, and Southeast Asia. They operate primarily through Tin Can Island Port and offer regular container services for manufacturers, agricultural exporters, and general importers.
PIL is recognised for its strong regional routes, flexible cargo space availability, and commitment to serving emerging economies like Nigeria with affordable shipping options.
6. Hapag-Lloyd Nigeria
Hapag-Lloyd AG is a German global shipping company founded in 1847, making it one of the oldest names in maritime logistics. It is currently led by Rolf Habben Jansen, who has served as CEO since 2014.
Hapag-Lloyd operates in Nigeria primarily through Lagos (Apapa Port) and offers container shipping services connecting Nigeria to Europe, North America, and Asia. The company is known for its expertise in handling standard containers, special cargo, and reefer shipments.
In Nigeria, Hapag-Lloyd focuses on serving industries such as agriculture, FMCG, and manufacturing, offering fast, reliable transit times and strong digital cargo management systems.
7. Evergreen Line Nigeria
Evergreen Marine Corporation, popularly known as Evergreen Line, was established in 1968 in Taiwan by Dr. Yung-Fa Chang. As of 2024, Evergreen is managed by its corporate leadership committee under the Evergreen Group.
Evergreen Nigeria operates primarily at Tin Can Island Port and provides container shipping services linking Nigeria to East Asia, Europe, and North America. The company is renowned for its green shipping initiatives and eco-friendly vessel technology.
Nigerian businesses use Evergreen Line for general cargo, temperature-sensitive shipments, and industrial equipment transport, particularly between Nigeria and major Asian markets like China, Japan, and South Korea.
8. COSCO Shipping Lines Nigeria
COSCO (China Ocean Shipping Company) was founded in 1961 in Beijing, China, and is now part of the merged entity China COSCO Shipping Corporation, one of the largest shipping groups globally. The Group is led by Xu Lirong as Chairman.
In Nigeria, COSCO operates through Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, providing bulk shipping, container shipping, and special project cargo services. COSCO connects Nigeria with major global ports across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
It also handles heavy lift and oversized cargo for Nigeria’s oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing industries, playing a critical role in China’s growing trade relationship with Nigeria.
9. ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Nigeria
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd, commonly known as ZIM, was founded in 1945 in Haifa, Israel. The company is currently led by Eli Glickman as President and CEO.
ZIM Nigeria operates mainly from Lagos (Apapa Port) and serves major trade lanes linking Nigeria to Europe, the United States, and the Mediterranean. ZIM is well known for its speed of service, flexible sailing schedules, and competitive transit times.
In Nigeria, it caters to manufacturers, exporters, and large retailers who require dependable container shipping services, particularly for time-sensitive and high-value goods.
10. Safmarine Nigeria (Now Maersk Africa Division)
Safmarine was originally founded in 1946 in South Africa and grew to become a strong African-focused shipping company. In 1999, it was acquired by Maersk Line and is now fully integrated into the Maersk Africa regional division.
Although the Safmarine brand has been phased out globally, its expertise in intra-African and Africa-Europe shipping continues under Maersk’s operations in Nigeria.
Safmarine’s legacy in Nigeria includes strong customer service relationships, handling general cargo, refrigerated goods, and bulk commodities, particularly supporting West African SMEs and cross-border traders.
11. Sifax Group
Founded in 1988, Sifax Group is a fully Nigerian-owned conglomerate that operates across shipping, aviation, oil and gas, and logistics sectors. The company was founded by Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, who still serves as Group Executive Vice Chairman.
In the shipping sector, Sifax is known for its extensive port terminal operations at Tin Can Island and Apapa, offering container handling, bonded terminal management, and freight services. Sifax has built a reputation for integrating customs brokerage, inland transportation, and warehouse services into a single seamless supply chain for businesses operating across West Africa.
12. Fortune Global Shipping & Logistics Limited
Established in 2006 by Eric Opah, Fortune Global Shipping is a dynamic shipping company that specialises in freight forwarding, project cargo logistics, and supply chain management.
With headquarters in Lagos and offices in Port Harcourt and Houston, USA, Fortune Global positions itself as a solution provider for complex cargo movements, particularly for Nigeria’s oil and gas, construction, and power industries.
It distinguishes itself through strong partnerships with global logistics networks, allowing Nigerian exporters and importers access to reliable, international-standard shipping services.
13. Comet Shipping Agencies Nigeria Ltd
Comet Shipping was founded in the mid-1980s as one of the earliest indigenous shipping companies in Nigeria. Led by industry veteran Mr. Segun Adewale, Comet built its strength in port agency services, ship husbandry, customs documentation, and freight forwarding.
The company operates mainly in Lagos, Warri, and Port Harcourt ports. What sets Comet apart is its long-standing relationships with government regulatory agencies, giving it an edge in efficiently clearing cargo and managing vessel operations in Nigeria’s often challenging maritime environment.
14. Starz Marine and Engineering Ltd
Starz Marine, incorporated in Nigeria on 28th October, 1992 and commenced operations on 28th October 2000. by Engr. Greg Ogbeifun, is a specialist provider of offshore marine logistics and shipbuilding services, based in Port Harcourt.
Unlike traditional freight-focused shipping companies, Starz Marine focuses on the oil and gas sector, offering services such as vessel leasing, crew management, and marine consultancy. It also operates the Starz Marine Academy, helping to train Nigeria’s next generation of seafarers. Starz Marine is one of the few indigenous companies running both operational vessels and maritime training facilities.
15. Elshcon Nigeria Limited
Founded in 1990 by Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji, Elshcon Nigeria Limited is an integrated oil and gas logistics company operating in the marine transportation and engineering space. Headquartered in Port Harcourt, Elshcon specialises in offshore support services, fleet management, and maritime construction.
Their operations are distinct for their strong focus on safety standards, compliance with international maritime regulations, and the provision of specialised support vessels for offshore exploration projects. Elshcon’s client base includes multinational oil companies and major Nigerian energy firms.
16. Ocean Glory Commodities Limited
Ocean Glory Commodities, founded in 2007, is a Nigerian-owned shipping and export company specialising in agro-commodities and general freight services. The company focuses on connecting Nigerian agricultural producers to global markets.
Based in Lagos, Ocean Glory manages container shipments, handles bulk cargo, and provides shipping consultancy for SMEs aiming to expand into export business. Unlike many traditional freight forwarders, Ocean Glory offers end-to-end support from packaging to international logistics, making it a preferred partner for small exporters.
17. Charkin Maritime Nigeria Ltd
Established in 2005 by Dr. Charles K. Wami, Charkin Maritime stands out in Nigeria’s shipping sector as both a logistics provider and a maritime education centre. Based in Port Harcourt, Charkin offers marine logistics services such as vessel chartering and offshore crew management, but it is equally respected for operating the Charkin Maritime Academy.
Through this dual focus, Charkin not only supports offshore shipping operations but also trains the technical manpower needed to grow Nigeria’s maritime industry, setting it apart from other indigenous companies.
18. Cloverleaf Shipping Limited
Cloverleaf Shipping, founded in 2012, is a Lagos-based maritime services provider with expertise in vessel chartering, marine logistics support, and petroleum products bunkering. The company is run by a team of experienced Nigerian marine professionals committed to servicing the oil and gas, construction, and offshore industries.
Cloverleaf differentiates itself by offering flexible vessel leasing packages and reliable marine support for time-sensitive offshore projects, carving a niche among mid-sized Nigerian shipping firms needing cost-effective maritime solutions.
19. Niger Benue Transport Company Ltd (NBTC)
Niger Benue Transport Company Ltd, established in 1959, has a long history as a pioneer in Nigeria’s inland waterway transportation system. Originally a public-private initiative, NBTC focuses on moving cargo between Nigeria’s coastal cities and inland river ports along the Niger and Benue Rivers.
Today, the company supports agricultural producers, industrial manufacturers, and mining companies looking for cost-efficient, inland shipping alternatives to congested road networks. NBTC’s inland focus gives it a unique position compared to sea-port-focused operators.
20. Ships and Ports Logistics Ltd
Founded by Nigerian shipping professional Mr. Bolaji Akinola, Ships and Ports Logistics Ltd offers a combination of cargo clearing, freight forwarding, and maritime consultancy services. The company operates primarily around Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, helping businesses manage customs documentation, clearing processes, and efficient cargo movement.
It is well-known within Nigeria’s shipping circles for combining strong regulatory knowledge with practical shipping operations, serving both small importers and larger trading firms.
Key Shipping Regulatory and Support Agencies in Nigeria
Shipping operations in Nigeria are governed by several regulatory and support agencies that oversee compliance, facilitate trade, and manage maritime infrastructure. Understanding these agencies is essential for entrepreneurs and businesses navigating the shipping and logistics sector.
1. Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
Established in 2006 through the merger of the National Maritime Authority (NMA) and the Joint Maritime Labour Industrial Council, NIMASA regulates Nigeria’s maritime sector. It is responsible for enforcing shipping laws, ensuring vessel safety, preventing marine pollution, and promoting indigenous participation under the Cabotage Act.
NIMASA also oversees the certification of seafarers and drives efforts to boost Nigeria’s maritime trade competitiveness.
2. Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
The Nigerian Ports Authority manages and operates the country’s seaports and terminals. NPA provides port infrastructure, monitors terminal concessions, and ensures efficient cargo handling processes at major ports like Apapa, Tin Can Island, Onne, and Calabar.
Recent initiatives include port digitalisation projects and partnerships to improve cargo evacuation and reduce congestion.
3. Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC)
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council serves as an economic regulator for Nigeria’s ports and freight forwarding industry. It protects the interests of shippers by monitoring port charges, promoting efficient shipping practices, and resolving disputes between cargo owners and service providers.
The NSC plays a major role in advancing trade facilitation reforms aimed at lowering the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports.
4. National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
The National Inland Waterways Authority regulates Nigeria’s inland water transport routes, including the Niger and Benue rivers. NIWA manages licensing for vessels operating on inland waterways, develops inland ports, and promotes the use of waterways for cargo transportation as an alternative to road freight.
This is critical for moving agricultural and industrial goods from inland production centres to seaports efficiently.
5. Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) was initially established as a revenue collection agency under British colonial rule. Today, it operates as an independent government agency under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Finance. NCS is responsible for the regulation and facilitation of international trade, assessment and collection of customs revenues, and enforcement of anti-smuggling laws at Nigeria’s borders and ports.
Customs processes directly affect importers, exporters, and shipping companies operating in Nigeria. Businesses rely on NCS for customs clearance, tariff classification, duty payments, cargo inspections, and the issuance of import and export licenses. Efficiency at the customs level is a critical factor affecting the speed and cost of moving goods through Nigerian seaports.
6. Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)
The Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) was established in 2007 under the CRFFN Act No. 16. It is a government-regulated council under the Federal Ministry of Transportation, responsible for professionalising and standardising freight forwarding practice in Nigeria.
CRFFN regulates the registration, licensing, and certification of freight forwarders operating at Nigerian ports and border points. It ensures that freight agents and clearing professionals meet set standards of operation, ethics, and competence.
For entrepreneurs using shipping services, working with CRFFN-accredited freight forwarders is critical to avoiding customs delays, penalties, and compliance issues during cargo movement.
How to Select the Right Shipping Company in Nigeria
Choosing the right shipping company is a strategic decision that directly impacts the speed, cost, and reliability of your business operations. With many local and international options available, entrepreneurs must carefully assess several key factors before committing to a shipping partner.
1. Evaluate Service Specialisation
Not all shipping companies offer the same range of services. Some specialise in containerised cargo, while others focus on oil and gas logistics, RORO shipments, or inland waterway transport. Identify a company whose expertise matches your cargo type, business sector, and destination markets.
2. Check Reputation and Track Record
A company’s track record in handling similar shipments, meeting delivery timelines, and resolving disputes is critical. Look for shipping companies with strong industry reputations, client references, and verifiable experience operating in Nigeria’s ports and trade corridors.
3. Assess Network Coverage
If your business involves frequent international shipments, choose a company with an extensive global and regional network of connections. For local and coastal trade, prioritise firms with strong domestic presence and relationships with Nigerian port authorities and customs agencies.
4. Understand Pricing Structure
Request transparent quotes and carefully review what is included: freight costs, port handling charges, customs fees, insurance, and inland transport. Compare pricing from multiple providers to avoid hidden costs that could erode your profit margins.
5. Review Compliance and Accreditation
Ensure that the shipping company is licensed by regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and if relevant, accredited by the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN). Proper accreditation protects you from regulatory penalties and service disruptions.
6. Evaluate Customer Support and Responsiveness
Effective communication is essential during shipping operations. Choose companies with strong customer service teams that provide real-time cargo updates, resolve documentation issues promptly, and offer support in case of delays or emergencies.
7. Prioritise Digital Capabilities
Leading shipping firms now offer digital cargo tracking, online booking systems, and electronic documentation. Working with companies that invest in digital tools improves shipment visibility, speeds up paperwork, and reduces administrative burdens.
Challenges Facing the Shipping Industry in Nigeria
While Nigeria’s shipping sector plays a crucial role in trade and economic development, it faces several systemic challenges that affect efficiency, costs, and overall competitiveness. Understanding these issues helps entrepreneurs plan better when engaging with shipping companies.
1. Port Congestion
Major Nigerian ports, particularly Apapa and Tin Can Island in Lagos, suffer from chronic congestion. Limited port capacity, slow cargo handling processes, and inadequate port evacuation infrastructure lead to significant delays, increased demurrage charges, and higher shipping costs for businesses.
2. Inefficient Customs Processes
Despite digitalisation efforts, customs clearance remains a bottleneck. Lengthy documentation procedures, inconsistent application of import regulations, and informal charges contribute to delays in cargo release, driving up operational costs for importers and exporters.
3. Poor Port and Road Infrastructure
Access roads to major ports are often in disrepair, leading to gridlock and additional transport delays. Insufficient investment in modern port equipment, outdated handling facilities, and slow infrastructure upgrades limit the industry’s ability to compete with global shipping hubs.
4. High Cost of Shipping and Clearing
Freight charges in Nigeria are among the highest in West Africa. Coupled with terminal handling charges, storage fees, and informal levies, the cost of clearing goods often exceeds planned budgets, reducing the competitiveness of Nigerian businesses in regional and global markets.
5. Insecurity at Sea and on Inland Waterways
Piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, sea robbery, and attacks on vessels remain persistent threats. Although maritime security initiatives have improved, shipping companies still face high insurance premiums and additional security costs, which are often passed on to cargo owners.
6. Regulatory Overlaps and Compliance Burdens
Multiple regulatory agencies oversee different aspects of shipping, sometimes leading to overlapping functions and duplicative charges. Navigating the requirements from NPA, NIMASA, NCS, NSC, and other bodies can create compliance burdens, especially for smaller businesses.
Conclusion
Shipping companies in Nigeria play a critical role in connecting businesses to global and regional markets. Despite infrastructure challenges and regulatory hurdles, the sector offers entrepreneurs a wide range of trusted options across international and indigenous firms. Choosing the right shipping partner requires careful evaluation of expertise, compliance, pricing, and network coverage to ensure efficiency and avoid costly delays.
As Nigeria deepens its participation in continental trade agreements like AfCFTA and expands its port infrastructure, opportunities in the shipping and logistics sector will continue to grow. Entrepreneurs who stay informed, partner with reliable shipping companies, and plan proactively will be well-positioned to scale their businesses successfully within and beyond Nigeria.
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FAQs About Shipping Companies in Nigeria
What are the best shipping companies in Nigeria for international trade?
Top international operators in Nigeria include Maersk Nigeria, MSC Nigeria, Grimaldi Nigeria, CMA CGM Nigeria, and Hapag-Lloyd. These companies offer reliable container shipping services connecting Nigeria to Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Are there credible indigenous shipping companies in Nigeria?
Yes. Indigenous firms like Sifax Group, Fortune Global Shipping, Comet Shipping, and Starz Marine provide specialised logistics services across container shipping, oil and gas support, and inland waterways operations.
How can I choose the right shipping company for my business?
Key factors include service specialisation, reputation, network coverage, pricing transparency, regulatory compliance, customer support, and digital service capabilities. Always verify licensing and accreditation before committing.
What challenges should I expect when shipping goods through Nigeria?
Common challenges include port congestion, customs delays, high clearing costs, poor road access to ports, and security risks at sea. Planning ahead and working with experienced shipping partners helps to manage these risks effectively.
Which government agencies regulate shipping operations in Nigeria?
Key agencies include the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN).
What is the best company to ship to Nigeria?
Maersk Line is widely regarded as one of the best companies for shipping to Nigeria, offering global routes, reliable container services, and extensive operations at Nigeria’s major ports.
What is the name of the best shipping company?
Globally, Maersk is often ranked as the best shipping company based on fleet size, service quality, and global reach. In Nigeria, both Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) have strong reputations.
What is the most popular transport company in Nigeria?
For maritime shipping, Sifax Group and Comet Shipping Agencies are among the most popular indigenous logistics and transport companies serving businesses across Nigeria. For road transport, GIGM (God Is Good Motors) is a leading name, but it operates outside the shipping sector.
Who is the richest shipping company?
As of 2024, A.P. Møller–Maersk Group is one of the richest and most valuable shipping companies globally, with revenues exceeding $80 billion annually and operations spanning over 130 countries.
