The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has emphasized that West African ports play a crucial role in the stability and survival of the global economy. According to him, the efficiency and resilience of ports across the region are not just local concerns but key drivers of international trade and economic balance.
Dantsoho made this statement on Sunday ahead of the upcoming Board of Directors meeting of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA), scheduled to take place in Lagos from May 18 to 20, 2026. The high-level gathering will bring together maritime leaders and port administrators from across the sub-region.
The meeting, hosted by the Nigerian Ports Authority, is expected to focus on improving port operations, strengthening logistics systems, and deepening cooperation among member states. Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, is also expected to officially declare the event open.
Speaking as the first Nigerian to serve as President of PMAWCA, Dantsoho described ports as “gateways of prosperity” that connect nations to global markets. He stressed that their role in promoting trade, development, and economic integration cannot be overstated, especially in today’s interconnected world.
The agenda for the meeting will also include discussions on port security, infrastructure development, and trade facilitation strategies aimed at building more efficient and future-ready maritime systems. Participants are expected to review progress on regional collaborations, reinforcing West Africa’s position in global shipping and trade networks.
source: Leadership