Diversifying logistics for Nigeria’s offshore future

Nigeria

Seni Edu, CEO of Eko Support Services, talks about the company’s diversification into project and breakbulk cargo and its phased plans to expand infrastructure to meet rising demand. Eko Support Services provides integrated logistics and terminal services to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with a focus on offshore support operations.

What drove your decision to diversify Eko Support Services’ activities into commercial and project cargo?
The shift came from both necessity and opportunity. A downturn in energy projects meant reduced oil and gas activity, prompting us to look elsewhere. At the same time, a major redevelopment carried out under the design, build, operate and transfer (DBOT) scheme with the Nigerian Ports Authority expanded our capacity. We went from only receiving supply vessels to being able to handle larger vessels, including container ships.
While we don’t handle containers due to space constraints, we now focus on breakbulk and project cargo. Lagos port congestion also created opportunities – with vessels waiting offshore, demand increases during peak import periods.
We’ve also enhanced our end-to-end logistics offering. Beyond terminal services, we now co-ordinate full cargo movement from port to destination. By partnering with companies such as EFL Logistics, we’ve delivered seamless solutions and cost savings. This includes handling specialised cargo such as CNG trucks for Dangote and NNPC, which we bond to offsite locations to create space and accelerate vessel turnaround. All of this supports our wider diversification strategy.

Are you planning to expand your infrastructure to support this diversification, and what is the timeline and location for the new facility?
We’re actively exploring expansion but haven’t made a geographic commitment yet. One key constraint is the uncertainty around Nigeria’s evolving tax regime, particularly its impact on free zones. Until there’s clarity, we’re hesitant to make major capital investments. Our aim is to develop a second free zone site linked to our current facility, and we’re assessing several waterfront locations near Lagos – though not within Apapa, where space is extremely limited. Many of these sites lack adequate jetty infrastructure, so any expansion would require significant marine investment. We’re carefully planning, conducting feasibility studies and consulting clients before making a decision.
This pause is temporary, as there’s growing momentum to raise oil and gas production by removing bottlenecks and accelerating indigenisation of onshore fields. While our logistics operations have focused on offshore, we’re now evaluating what kind of facility could meet onshore demand. We’re considering a smaller, dedicated oil and gas support site that integrates with our existing setup.
We expect to commit to the project by the end of 2026. Development would proceed in phases – some warehousing and auxiliary services could be operational quickly, but marine-side capabilities may take up to 12 months after commitment. That phased approach allows us to manage uncertainty and maintain flexibility, especially while evaluating financing options and forecasting revenue.

How is Eko Support positioning itself to support the upcoming wave of major offshore projects such as Oriental Energy Resources’ FPSO and developments from TotalEnergies and Shell?
We’re already receiving enquiries for shore-based FPSO support. I recently spoke with a client about services they struggle to find, highlighting growing demand beyond traditional terminal operations. We’re looking to expand into value-added areas, especially pre-deployment support when FPSOs first arrive – including logistics, inspections, minor repairs and mobilisation.
We’re also exploring partnerships where specialised equipment or tooling is needed. For example, working with rental tool providers could enable us to offer light repair or servicing onsite. Our waterfront location is a key advantage – supply vessels can dock, receive immediate support and return offshore without delay. Whether through partners or in-house capabilities, we’re identifying ways to deliver added value through proximity and experience.

Innovation is playing an increasingly important role in logistics and offshore services. How is Eko Support integrating new technologies into its operations?
We’re beginning to apply artificial intelligence to streamline operations. This industry has traditionally relied on older systems and workflows, so we’re deliberately hiring younger graduates to modernise our processes and build long-term capability.

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