Navoil & Soyuz Bunkering Group Launch Bunker Service in Lagos

The Port of Lagos has been described as one of the largest and busiest in Africa.

Singapore-based Navoil and new global bunkering player Soyuz Bunkering Group (SBG) have launched a new bunkering service in Lagos, Nigeria, SBG has said in an emailed comment.

"We have got all the relevant permits in order, and are working closely with the authorities in the port to ensure Lagos is put on the bunker map as a competitive and reliable bunker alternative," said Navoil Managing Director Glenford Tan.

The operation has a 2009 built double hull tanker, Anamaria, said to be able to offer a range of products from 380 cSt bunkers to distillates.

"Our competitive advantage is the fact that we can supply vessels within the port area in a safe and efficient manner," said Tan. 

"Shipowners don't have to venture 50 nautical miles outside the port to bunker their ships, saving them time, money and extra planning".

SBG will be providing the marketing for the operation, which Tan described as a "huge advantage" given SBG's comprehensive global reach.

"We are happy Navoil has chosen us to represent them in this new area. Based on our knowledge of the area and our contacts in the shipping industry we think we can offer Navoil the help they need on the marketing side," commented Peter Grunwaldt, CEO for SBG.

"Navoil has got a team of quality people around them and somebody we would like to assist in the future."

Tan noted he did not think their entrance into the West Africa market would lead to a "price war".

"We are the only player in a niche market, we don't think the other suppliers in West Africa will see us as a major competitor, but more as an addition to a market that is getting more and more recognised amongst the shipping community around the world," he said.

"We think everybody can see an advantage in ensuring our customers don't think of the area as one to be avoided."

Grunwaldt concluded: "As usual potential customers are welcome to ask for more information in any of our offices, whether they ask the crew in Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai or Rotterdam is not relevant to us, they will be given the same service in the time zone they prefer."

Requirements to be sent to: soyuz@sb-group.biz