Dantsoho elected first Nigerian chairman of PMAWCA

Minister hails milestone as proof of FG’s reforms

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, yesterday emerged the first Nigerian elected Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA).

The election took place during the closing ceremony of the 44th Annual Council Meeting and the 19th Roundtable of Directors General of PMAWCA in Conakry, Guinea.

In his acceptance speech, Dantsoho described the achievement as a landmark moment for West and Central African maritime states in their quest for global competitiveness and delivery of world-class services.

He highlighted the Nigerian government’s commitment to transforming the maritime industry through extensive reforms in port rehabilitation, infrastructure modernization, digitization, and automation.

“These reforms are designed to enhance operational efficiency, increase revenue generation, and support the federal government’s drive to diversify the economy by boosting non-oil exports,” Dantsoho stated.

Dantsoho expressed gratitude for the mantle of leadership of PMAWCA, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering determination, championed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He said this is to sustain the progress established by his predecessor, Mr. Martin Boguikuoma of the Gabon Ports Authority, saying, “Together, we will consolidate regional economic cohesion and actualize the interests of member ports.”

Dantsoho emphasised the importance of collaboration among member states to achieve the association’s objectives.

He also advocated for relocating the PMAWCA headquarters to Lagos, Nigeria, addressing training needs, and strengthening the Port Community System (PCS).

“I will rely on your cooperation and advice as we collectively work to develop the maritime sector across our countries and the sub-region,” he said.

In a congratulatory message, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola commended Dantsoho’s election, calling it a testament to the recognition of Nigeria’s port reforms by global stakeholders.

He said this milestone aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises Nigeria’s maritime sector as a key driver of economic growth.
Oyetola said the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy demonstrates the President’s vision and political will to unlock the untapped potential of Nigeria’s blue economy.

He noted that with Nigeria’s strategic coastline and location, the country is poised to become a hub for maritime activities in Africa.

“The maritime sector has immense potential to transform the Nigerian economy, create jobs, and improve livelihoods. Dantsoho’s election underscores our collective efforts to reclaim Nigeria’s global relevance in the maritime industry,” he added.

Oyetola expressed confidence in Dantsoho’s ability to deliver on his responsibilities and strengthen the association’s vision.