The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho has made history as the first Nigerian to be elected Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA). The landmark achievement was announced during the closing ceremony of the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of Directors General of PMAWCA in Conakry, Guinea.
In his acceptance speech, Dantsoho described his election as a milestone for the maritime states of West and Central Africa in their quest for global competitiveness and world-class service delivery.
He credited Nigeria’s progressive maritime reforms—focused on port modernization, infrastructure development, digitization, and automation—for laying the groundwork for such recognition.
“These reforms not only enhance operational efficiency and revenue generation but also support the Federal Government’s diversification agenda by boosting non-oil exports,” Dantsoho said. He pledged to uphold the legacy of his predecessor, Gabon Ports Authority Managing Director Martin Boguikuoma, while advancing regional economic cohesion and promoting the interests of member ports.
Dantsoho emphasized the need for collaboration among member states, urging robust commitment to collective mandates. “I will rely on your usual cooperation and advice to ensure that we continue to develop the maritime sector in our countries and the West and Central African sub-region as a whole,” he said.
Addressing strategic goals, Dantsoho reiterated the importance of relocating the PMAWCA headquarters to Lagos, Nigeria, a move he believes would enhance visibility and operational efficiency. He also prioritized capacity building and advancing the Association’s Port Community Systems (PCS) as critical objectives during his tenure.
In a congratulatory statement, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described Dantsoho’s election as a testament to the growing recognition of Nigeria’s maritime reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Oyetola highlighted the political significance of establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, emphasizing its role in harnessing Nigeria’s maritime potential.
“This achievement underscores our government’s resolve to reposition the maritime sector as a driver of economic growth,” Oyetola said. “Dantsoho’s election signals that the efforts to revitalize the Nigerian port economy are gaining international acclaim. It is a demonstration of the President’s vision and political will to ensure Nigeria reclaims its rightful place as a key global maritime player.”
Oyetola noted that Nigeria’s rich coastline and strategic location position it to become a leading hub for maritime activities in Africa. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging the blue economy for national prosperity, creating jobs, and enhancing livelihoods.
“The maritime industry holds transformative potential for Nigeria’s economy. With focused leadership and continued reforms, we are on track to unlocking opportunities that will cement our position in the global maritime community,” the Minister added.
Dantsoho’s election is seen as a significant boost for Nigeria’s maritime aspirations and a unifying moment for the region, with stakeholders optimistic about the future of PMAWCA under his leadership.
