Lagos Free Zone, CEVA seal logistics joint venture

Lagos Free Zone and CEVA Logistics have entered into a joint venture aimed at strengthening integrated logistics services across Nigeria and the wider West African region, in a move designed to improve trade efficiency and regional supply chains.

The agreement, which has received approval from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, was recently signed with CEVA Logistics taking a majority stake in the new company. The partnership will establish a global logistics operated warehouse within the Lagos Free Zone, located at the Lekki Deep Sea Port.

The initiative is intended to streamline import and export operations by connecting manufacturers and importers directly to West African markets. It is expected to reduce delays, lower logistics costs, and improve access to the Economic Community of West African States trade routes.

According to Lagos Free Zone Managing Director Adesuwa Ladoja, the collaboration is part of efforts to build a unified logistics hub that integrates port operations, industrial infrastructure, and efficient distribution systems. She said the partnership strengthens Nigeria’s position as a regional trade gateway.

Ladoja explained that Lekki Deep Sea Port provides a key entry point for goods into West Africa, while the free zone framework allows businesses to benefit from duty free movement of goods within ECOWAS markets. She added that a newly introduced customs approved logistics corridor now enables cargo movement between the port and the free zone within hours, reducing delays and operational costs.

CEVA Logistics Vice President for Air and Ocean Product in the IMEA region, Jean Baptiste Rambaud, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting global trade flows into West Africa. He noted that the venture is designed to provide uninterrupted logistics services for international manufacturers targeting the region.

He added that combining CEVA’s global logistics network with Lagos Free Zone’s infrastructure will improve supply chain predictability and support businesses operating in fast growing markets such as fast moving consumer goods.

The partners said the joint venture will allow companies to focus on production and market expansion while relying on an integrated system for the movement of goods from global origins into West African destinations.

The development is expected to further position Lagos as a major logistics hub for the region, supporting trade expansion and improving efficiency in cross border supply chains.