In a groundbreaking achievement, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has been elected as the first Nigerian Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA).
This milestone was reached during the 44th annual council and 19th roundtable of Directors General of PMAWCA in Conakry, Guinea.
Dantsoho’s acceptance speech highlighted the significance of this recognition, emphasizing the continued progress of West and Central African maritime states towards global competitiveness and world-class services.
He attributed this success to the Nigerian government’s commitment to revolutionizing the maritime industry through reforms in critical segments.
The measures aim to boost operational efficiency, revenue generation, and non-oil exports, aligning with the federal government’s efforts to diversify the economy.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola congratulated Dantsoho, stating that his election testifies to global recognition of Nigeria’s efforts to turn around its port economy.
Oyetola emphasized that this achievement fuels Nigeria’s ambition to reclaim its maritime global relevance under President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.
He said: “Dr. Dantsoho’s election is a testament to the fact that our efforts to turn around the port economy in Nigeria are being recognized by global stakeholders.
“The creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy reflects the government’s commitment to building a future where the blue economy plays a major role in national prosperity.”
President Bola Tinubu’s establishment of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy demonstrates his understanding of the sector’s economic potential and commitment to harnessing it.
Dantsoho called for collaboration among member states, emphasizing that robust commitment and cooperation are essential to achieving mandates.
He also highlighted key goals, including relocating the PMAWCA headquarters to Lagos, Nigeria, and addressing training needs.
As Dantsoho assumes his new role, expectations are high for Nigeria’s maritime sector to experience significant growth and development.
This historic election marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s maritime journey, solidifying its position as a key player in West and Central Africa.
The PMAWCA chairmanship is a prestigious position, and Dantsoho’s appointment underscores Nigeria’s increasing influence in regional and global maritime affairs.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of the maritime industry, Dantsoho’s leadership is poised to steer the sector towards greater success.
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