Nigeria Joins International Port Community System Association to Enhance Maritime Operations
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced that Nigeria has been admitted as a member of the International Port Community System Association (IPCSA). This milestone was revealed by Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of NPA, during the National Single Window (NSW) Stakeholder’s engagement held on January 30, 2025, in Lagos. Dantsoho highlighted that the country’s membership followed its successful fulfillment of the necessary requirements, positioning Nigeria alongside top regional ports like Morocco’s Tangier Med Port, Ghana, Togo, Ivory Coast, and Benin Republic.
The Port Community System (PCS) plays a crucial role in modernizing port operations by ensuring compliance with international maritime standards. According to Dantsoho, the PCS is central to achieving the goals of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic. The system is designed to prevent delays in maritime traffic, improve cooperation between governments, and ensure uniformity in formalities and procedures at ports.
As part of Nigeria’s commitment to implementing the Single Window (SW) approach, Dantsoho explained that the NPA has been preparing for the electronic exchange of declarations, a requirement under the FAL Convention of 2019. The PCS serves as a precursor to the NSW, aiming to streamline port processes and enhance the efficiency of trade facilitation at Nigerian ports. The NPA has adopted a proactive approach in implementing ICT solutions to improve its operations and meet international standards.
Dantsoho emphasized the significance of the National Single Window as a key element in the modernization of trade facilitation in Nigeria. With the support of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, under the leadership of Minister Adegboyega Oyetola, the NPA is committed to the successful implementation of the NSW, which is expected to bring significant improvements to the country’s maritime and trade operations.
The successful integration of Nigeria into the International Port Community System Association reflects the NPA’s dedication to improving port infrastructure and operations. By embracing advanced technology and international standards, Nigeria is taking an important step toward enhancing its position in global maritime trade and boosting the efficiency of its ports.
Source: PUNCH