The Port Reforms Advocacy Network (PRAN) has lauded the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, for his role in repositioning Nigeria’s seaports as engines of trade growth and global competitiveness.
In a statement signed by its president, Prince Chijioke Adimora, the group praised Dantsoho’s commitment to modernising port infrastructure, digitising operations and championing sustainability, describing his leadership as “remarkable” in less than two years in office.
Adimora noted that figures presented by Dantsoho at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly demonstrated the impact of reforms already taking root, with a 19.6 per cent growth in non-oil exports recorded in the first half of 2025.
“This achievement underlines the importance of competent leadership in sensitive institutions like the Nigerian Ports Authority. Dr Dantsoho has not only reformed operational procedures but also restored investor confidence in our seaports,” Adimora said.
He added that ongoing investments in smart digitalisation — including paperless transactions, e-tag verification and electronic call-up systems — were easing cargo movement, reducing dwell times, and improving access control at terminals. The recent installation of electronic barrier systems at Lagos Port Complex was cited as evidence of efficiency gains.
PRAN also highlighted the NPA’s plan to roll out a Port Community System by the first quarter of 2026 as a milestone that would integrate data, deepen collaboration among stakeholders and unlock fresh opportunities for trade.
On sustainability, Adimora welcomed initiatives such as shore-to-ship emission reduction at Lekki Port, describing them as vital to aligning Nigeria with international standards. “Through Dantsoho’s leadership, we are seeing a genuine transition towards greener and more efficient operations,” he said.
The group further commended the commissioning of new tugboats and marine crafts to support operations at Lekki Deep Seaport, the Dangote Refinery and the Dangote Fertiliser Plant. According to PRAN, these investments underscore the NPA’s readiness to handle mega facilities and position Nigeria as a maritime hub in West Africa.
“Dantsoho’s focus on long-term viability, efficiency and competitiveness ensures that our ports will remain the pride of the sub-region. His reforms are the pathway to real economic diversification,” Adimora stated.
He urged maritime stakeholders to support the ongoing reforms, stressing that consolidating gains in non-oil exports was crucial to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on crude oil.
With his modernisation drive and focus on sustainability, Dr Dantsoho’s stewardship of the NPA is increasingly being recognised as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s push for global competitiveness and economic resilience.
