Operational Cost Controller at Lekki Freeport Terminal

Lekki Freeport Terminal (LFT) operates as the container terminal at Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is Nigeria's first true deep-sea port and one of the most advanced maritime gateways in West Africa. Strategically positioned within the Lagos Free Zone in Ibeju-Lekki, LFT is dedicated to connecting global trade to Nigeria in a sustainable manner, utilising robust automation, digitisation, and innovation from the moment vessels board to the delivery of cargo while adhering to international safety standards.

The terminal takes advantage of deep water, with a draft of up to 16.5 m, and modern ship-to-shore capabilities, enabling it to accommodate large vessels and handle significant cargo volumes. This is part of a port complex designed to scale for millions of TEUs annually. The depth and infrastructure of the terminal contribute to reducing logistics costs and alleviating congestion along the Lagos corridor, establishing LFT as a key driver of regional trade growth. As Nigeria’s latest maritime gateway, LFT provides world-class port operations, integrating cutting-edge equipment, data-driven processes, and a culture of innovation to ensure faster, safer, and more reliable cargo flows for both shippers and shipping lines.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Operational Cost Controller

Location: Ibeju Lekki, Lagos
Employment Type: Full-time
Department: Finance
Reporting to: CFO

Job Purpose

• To monitor, analyse, and control operational costs within the container terminal, ensuring cost efficiency, budget adherence, and optimal utilisation of resources without compromising safety, service quality, or operational performance.

Key Responsibilities
Cost Monitoring & Control:

• Track daily, weekly, and monthly operational costs across terminal activities (quay, yard, gate, equipment, and support services)
• Monitor utility costs against approved operational budgets
• Identify cost overruns, inefficiencies, and waste in terminal operations
• Implement cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service standards.

Budgeting & Forecasting:

• Support preparation of annual operational budgets and cost forecasts
• Provide variance analysis between actual costs and budgeted figures
• Recommend and report on the implementation of corrective actions (preventive maintenance / utility consumption / etc.)
• Assist in cost modelling for new projects, equipment, or process changes.

Operational Analysis & Reporting:

• Challenge the data provided by the Operational departments
• Analyse the cost per move (lift-on/lift-off), vessel call costs, yard productivity costs, and equipment utilisation.
• Prepare detailed cost control reports for management review
• Track unit costs for manpower, fuel, power, equipment maintenance, and consumables
• Support management with data-driven decision-making.

Process Improvement & Efficiency:

• Work closely with Operations, Engineering, and Planning teams to improve productivity and reduce operational waste
• Support the implementation of efficiency initiatives (lean operations and process optimisation).
• Monitor impact of operational changes on cost performance
• Promote cost-conscious culture across operational teams.

Compliance & Controls:

• Ensure adherence to approved procurement and cost authorization procedures
• Support internal and external audits related to operational expenditure
• Ensure cost records are accurate, complete, and compliant with company policies
• Enforce cost control guidelines across terminal operations.

Stakeholder Coordination:

• Liaise with Operations, Finance, Procurement, Engineering, and HR on cost-related matters
• Provide cost insights to terminal management and department heads
• Support vendor and contractor cost evaluations.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Utility cost (power & water consumption for operations & administrative buildings)
• Cost per container move
• Budget variance (%)
• Operational cost reduction achieved
• Accuracy and timeliness of cost reports
• Equipment and manpower cost efficiency
• Compliance with cost control procedures.

Qualifications & Experience

• HND / BSc in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or related discipline
• 3 – 6 years experience in cost control, operational finance, or terminal operations
• Experience in port, logistics, maritime, or heavy industrial environment preferred
• Professional certification (ICAN, ACCA, CIMA, PMP – added advantage).

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and numerical skills
• Good understanding of terminal operations and cost drivers
• Proficiency in Excel, ERP systems, and Terminal Operating Systems (TOS)
• Excellent reporting and presentation skills
• Attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
• Ability to work under pressure in a 24/7 operational environment
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.

Application Closing Date
12th February, 2026.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online