Breaking News! The First Direct China–Nigeria Vessel Arrives at Onne Port, Marking a New Era for China–West Africa Logistics

Recently, a major development that could reshape China–Africa trade has drawn significant industry attention: the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) in Eastern Nigeria has officially received its first-ever direct container vessel from China — the MSC Dorine V.

This marks a series of groundbreaking changes:
👉 China–Nigeria shipping achieves true direct service for the first time
👉 The China–West Africa (Nigeria) supply chain becomes significantly more efficient
👉 The strategic position of Onne Port is greatly elevated

The MSC Dorine V, operated by Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), berthed at OMT in the early hours of November 9. It is the first vessel to sail directly from China/Far East to Eastern Nigeria without any transshipment.

For Nigerian importers and Chinese traders dealing in building materials, machinery, hardware, consumer goods, furniture, and more, this development carries substantial significance.

I. First Direct China–Nigeria Vessel Successfully Berths at Onne Port

OMT General Manager Nicolo S. M. described the arrival of MSC Dorine V as:
“A landmark event that will reshape Nigeria’s trade landscape and unlock significant market potential.”

The vessel’s arrival not only symbolizes the opening of the new direct route but also reflects ongoing upgrades at Eastern Nigerian ports:

Length: 294 meters

Capacity: 5,089 TEU

One of the largest vessels ever to call at ports in Eastern Nigeria

MSC’s Regional Manager for South–South and Southeast Nigeria, Oscar Agucha, added:
“The direct service shortens transit time to 40–42 days, offering a faster, more stable, and more cost-effective solution compared with previous transshipment routes.”

With the launch of this direct service, the role of Eastern Nigerian ports becomes increasingly important, positioning Onne as a major import gateway alongside Lagos.

II. Advantages of the Direct Service at a Glance

Keywords: Nigeria direct service, China to Nigeria transit time, China to Onne Port shipping

III. Impact on Importers and Exporters: Faster, More Stable, More Cost-Effective

1. Significant Transit Time Improvement (40–42 Days)

Before: Transshipment through Middle East/Europe, prone to delays
Now: Direct to Onne — one seamless voyage, saving approximately 5–10 days.

2. Lower Costs

Eliminating transshipment reduces:

One round of loading/unloading costs

Port surcharges

Transshipment delay risks

Schedule instability

Overall supply chain costs become more predictable.

3. Reduced Congestion Compared with Lagos + Faster Clearance

While Lagos remains congested, Onne generally offers:

Shorter queues

Faster processing

More reliable trucking capacity

This is especially beneficial for businesses in Port Harcourt, Aba, Owerri, Onitsha, Enugu and surrounding regions.

4. Accelerates Port Development in Nigeria

Direct service encourages the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to continue upgrades:

Onne Port dredging

Expansion of the second port complex

Capacity to receive larger vessels

Onne is expected to become the core logistics hub for Southeastern Nigeria.

IV. How to Maximize This New Direct Route

1. Best-Suited Cargo for the Onne Direct Service

Machinery & equipment

Construction materials and project cargo

Furniture and home goods

Auto parts and hardware tools

Solar products

General consumer goods

Particularly ideal for companies serving Nigeria’s southern and southeastern regions.

2. Plan Shipments & Book Space Early

Demand for the new service may surge during initial months—early booking is recommended.

3. Ensure Compliance with Nigerian Import Documentation

Nigeria’s import clearance is stringent. Prepare in advance:

Form M

SONCAP

PAAR

Accurate commercial invoice & packing list

Proper documentation helps avoid delays, inspections, or demurrage.

4. Compare Total Logistics Cost: Lagos vs. Onne

Lower ocean freight does not always mean lower overall cost—evaluate:

Trucking from port

Clearance efficiency

Port charges

Storage time

Distance to final destination

Many businesses find that Onne’s total landed cost is actually lower.

📩 If you need the latest rates and schedules for China → Nigeria direct service, feel free to contact us. We will recommend the best solution based on your cargo type, destination city, and specific requirements.