Danish shipping and logistics company, A.P. Moller-Maersk, has opted not to provide comments regarding speculations about a potential $600 million investment in Nigeria’s seaport infrastructure. The uncertainty emerged following closed-door discussions between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and the company’s Chairman, Robert Uggla, during the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, last Sunday.
Initially, a statement attributed to Tinubu’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, claimed that during the meeting, Uggla pledged a significant investment in Nigerian seaport infrastructure. According to the statement, Uggla was quoted as saying, “We believe in Nigeria, and we will invest $600 million in existing facilities and make the ports accommodating for bigger ships.” This announcement seemed to align with Nigeria’s existing plans for seaport reconstruction, which Tinubu had mentioned.
However, in response to inquiries, A.P. Moller-Maersk neither confirmed nor denied the reported investment. Instead, officials reiterated the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s growth and development.
According to a statement provided to Lloyd’s List, a maritime insights platform, Maersk has been engaged in Nigeria for over three decades and remains dedicated to fostering opportunities for local growth and businesses. While acknowledging ongoing dialogues with the Nigerian administration, the company refrained from commenting on specific investment discussions.
Subsequently, amidst media reports suggesting a contradiction between the company’s stance and the Nigerian government’s claims, Tinubu’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, clarified that Maersk had not directly refuted the government’s statements. In a tweet, Olusegun underscored that the controversy stemmed from media headlines rather than Maersk’s explicit denial, indicating that the company’s position remains unaltered.
This detailed account highlights the complexities surrounding the reported investment and underscores the need for clarity amidst conflicting statements.
