For students of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, understanding how goods move across global markets is a fundamental part of their academic journey. But for the Master’s students of the Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS), University of Lagos, learning recently went far beyond textbooks and lecture rooms. On Friday, 2 October 2026, they embarked on an exciting educational field trip to the Flour Mills of Nigeria (FMN)/Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited (ABTL), gaining rare, first-hand insight into the complex world of maritime logistics and terminal operations.
The visit, led by the Director of the Institute of Maritime Studies, Professor Abiodun Mary Odukoya, and coordinated by Dr. Geraldine Anukwu, offered students a unique opportunity to witness the practical application of concepts they study in the classroom. It was a journey that brought supply chains to life, revealing the intricate processes that drive international trade and economic development.
A Warm Welcome at Apapa Bulk Terminal
Upon arrival at Apapa Bulk Terminal, the delegation was warmly received by the terminal’s leadership team. The students had the privilege of interacting with industry leaders whose wealth of experience provided valuable perspectives on the maritime sector.
The Managing Director of ABTL, Engr. Festus Omotoyinbo, shared the remarkable growth story of the terminal, highlighting its strategic role in facilitating imports and exports, supporting industrial production, and strengthening Nigeria’s economy. His presentation gave students a broader understanding of how port infrastructure serves as a critical engine of national development.
Adding another layer of industry insight was Mr. Cephas Afebuameh, Managing Director of Golden Transport Company and Director of B2C Group Supply Chain. He spoke passionately about the importance of logistics and supply chain management in ensuring seamless terminal operations. Through practical examples, he illustrated the coordination required among shipping lines, terminal operators, transport providers, importers, and exporters to keep goods moving efficiently across the supply chain.Their presentations set the stage for what would become a deeply enriching learning experience.
Experiencing Maritime Operations First-Hand
One of the most exciting moments of the visit was the guided tour of the terminal itself. Students were taken through key operational areas by experienced ABTL personnel, including the Head of Shipping Operations, Mr. Sunday Nwachukwu Ngige, and the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Manager, Linda Chinweze.
Before entering operational zones, students received comprehensive safety briefings and an overview of terminal procedures, underscoring the industry’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and professionalism.
The highlight of the tour was the opportunity to board a vessel and observe maritime operations up close. Standing aboard a working vessel, students witnessed first-hand the interaction between ships and terminal facilities, bringing to life concepts they had previously encountered only in lectures and case studies.
As they observed cargo handling operations and the coordination between vessel crews and terminal personnel, students gained a deeper appreciation of the critical role played by operational planning, safety compliance, communication, and efficiency in ensuring the smooth flow of goods through global supply chains.
For many, it was a defining learning moment, transforming theoretical knowledge into tangible understanding.
Reflection and Industry Engagement at the FMN Glass House
Following the terminal tour, the delegation was hosted at the iconic FMN Glass House, where discussions continued in a more reflective setting.
Mr. Cephas Afebuameh once again engaged the students, emphasizing the importance of industry exposure in preparing future logistics and supply chain professionals. He encouraged the students to take full advantage of opportunities that bridge academic learning and professional practice, noting that practical experience is essential for success in the evolving world of logistics and maritime operations.
The session provided students with an opportunity to ask questions, exchange ideas, and gain further insights into industry realities from seasoned professionals.
Bridging Theory and Practice
Throughout the day, students encountered virtually every major theme within their programme in a real-world environment. From maritime transportation and shipping operations to port management, cargo handling, import and export activities, safety management, and supply chain integration, the visit demonstrated how interconnected these disciplines are within modern logistics systems.
What students learned in a single morning reinforced weeks of classroom instruction, proving the immense value of experiential learning in higher education.
More importantly, the experience showcased the critical role the maritime sector plays in driving trade, supporting industrial growth, and contributing to national economic development.
Building Future Industry Leaders Through Collaboration
Speaking at the conclusion of the visit, Professor Odukoya expressed profound appreciation to the management of Flour Mills of Nigeria and Apapa Bulk Terminal Limited for their hospitality and willingness to share their expertise with the students.
Special recognition was given to Mr. Omotoyinbo and Mr. Cephas Afebuameh for their leadership, mentorship, and commitment to supporting the next generation of logistics and maritime professionals.
Professor Odukoya emphasized that partnerships between academia and industry are indispensable in developing competent, innovative, and industry-ready graduates. She reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to strengthening such collaborations as part of its broader mission to advance education, research, and professional development within the maritime sector.
Preparing Students for the Future
The educational excursion served as a powerful reminder that the future of logistics and supply chain management lies at the intersection of knowledge and experience. By opening their doors to students, FMN and ABTL provided an invaluable platform for learning that no textbook alone could offer.
For the Master’s students of the Institute of Maritime Studies, the visit was more than an academic exercise. It was an inspiring glimpse into the dynamic world they are preparing to lead, a world where ships, ports, terminals, and supply chains converge to power economies and connect markets across continents.
As the students left Apapa with fresh insights and renewed enthusiasm, one thing was clear: the gap between classroom learning and industry practice had become significantly smaller, and the future of maritime logistics in Nigeria looks brighter because of it.
