The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, on Wednesday, emerged as the first Nigerian to be elected Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa.
His election was confirmed during the closing of the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of Directors General of PMAWCA in Conakry, Guinea.
In a statement released on Thursday, NPA announced the achievement, underscoring the significance of the recognition for both Dantsoho and the Nigerian maritime industry.
In his acceptance speech, Dantsoho described the election as a pivotal moment for the region’s maritime sector, emphasising its importance in enhancing global competitiveness and delivering world-class services.
He attributed Nigeria’s strong position to the government’s ongoing reforms aimed at revitalising the country’s maritime industry.
These efforts according to him, include port rehabilitation, modernisation, infrastructure development, digitisation, and automation.
“These reforms are crucial in boosting operational efficiency and increasing revenue generation, which aligns with the federal government’s goal of diversifying the economy through the growth of non-oil exports,” Dantsoho stated.
He also pledged to build on the progress made by his predecessor, Mr. Martin Boguikuoma, Managing Director of the Gabon Ports Authority.
Dantsoho expressed his commitment to sustaining the momentum of regional economic integration, affirming Nigeria’s continued support for PMAWCA’s objectives.
“I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm Nigeria’s determination, as demonstrated by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, to continue the progress set by my predecessor and to advance the economic cohesion of our region,” Dantsoho said.
He also called for greater collaboration among member states to achieve the association’s goals, stressing that a united approach is essential for the development of the maritime sector in West and Central Africa.
Dantsoho highlighted key initiatives he intends to prioritise during his tenure, including relocating the PMAWCA headquarters to a more visible and appropriate location in Lagos, Nigeria, as well as addressing the training needs of the Association.
He pledged to work diligently to achieve these goals and further enhance the region’s maritime capabilities.
Meanwhile, Oyetola congratulated Dantsoho on his election, recognizing it as a clear indication that Nigeria’s efforts to revamp its port economy are gaining international recognition.
The Minister praised Dantsoho’s leadership and affirmed that the achievement will boost Nigeria’s efforts to reclaim its maritime prominence on the global stage under President Bola Tinubu’s agenda.
Oyetola emphasised that the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is a critical step in unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He expressed confidence that Dantsoho’s election as PMAWCA Chairman would contribute to Nigeria’s goal of becoming a key player in global maritime affairs.
“The creation of the ministry is not just a strategic move, but a demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the port economy and reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a maritime hub,” Oyetola concluded.
The Minister reiterated that the maritime sector holds immense potential for economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods, and with continued leadership and reforms, Nigeria can capitalise on these opportunities.
