The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho, has explained why women occupy 60 per cent of the Technical Assistant positions in the agency, saying the decision reflects the authority’s commitment to gender equality.

Dantsoho made the remark while celebrating women working in the maritime sector as part of activities marking International Women’s Day.

According to him, the appointments were a deliberate step to promote women’s participation and leadership within the organisation.

“Women hold 60 per cent of these roles, with men making up the remaining 40 per cent. This intentional step underscores NPA’s commitment to advancing women’s participation and success across the maritime industry,” he said.

The NPA boss commended the resilience, dedication and contributions of women working across different operational areas of the authority.

He noted that women in the organisation are excelling in critical fields including firefighting, security, piloting, engineering and hydrography, as well as administrative and maritime-support services such as aids to navigation.

Dantsoho said their growing presence in these roles demonstrates the capacity of women to thrive in areas traditionally dominated by men.

The NPA also used the occasion to salute women within the agency and across the maritime sector for breaking barriers and contributing to the growth of the industry.