L-R Outgoing PMWACA Chairman and Managing
BY GODWIN OBI
Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Nigerian to be elected Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA). The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the 44th Annual Council and 19th Directors General Roundtable held in Conakry, Guinea.
In a symbolic moment, outgoing Chairman and Managing Director of Gabon Ports Authority, Mr. Martin Boguikoma, officially handed over the staff of office to Dr. Dantsoho in the presence of PMAWCA Secretary-General, Mr. Jean Marie Koffi.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Dantsoho emphasized the importance of fostering global competitiveness among maritime states in West and Central Africa. He highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to revolutionary reforms in the maritime sector, including port modernization, infrastructure development, and the adoption of digital technologies.
“These reforms will not only enhance operational efficiency but also support the federal government’s efforts to diversify the economy by boosting non-oil exports,” Dantsoho stated.
He pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Mr. Boguikoma, while advancing economic cohesion and collaboration among member ports. “It is an honor to accept this mantle of leadership. Together, we will continue to strengthen the economic unity of our region and achieve the goals of PMAWCA,” he added.
Key Goals Under Dantsoho’s Leadership
Dr. Dantsoho outlined his priorities, including:
Relocating the PMAWCA headquarters to Lagos, Nigeria, for enhanced visibility.
Addressing the training needs of the association to improve professional capacity.
Advancing the implementation of Port Community Systems (PCS) across member states.
He called on member countries to support these initiatives, emphasizing that success would require collective commitment and collaboration.
Minister Oyetola Applauds the Milestone
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, congratulated Dr. Dantsoho, describing his election as a recognition of Nigeria’s maritime reforms.
“This achievement validates the strides made under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Oyetola remarked. He added that the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy was a significant step towards unlocking Nigeria’s untapped maritime potential.
Oyetola expressed confidence in Dr. Dantsoho’s ability to lead PMAWCA effectively. “The maritime sector holds immense promise for Nigeria, and this election underscores our resolve to reclaim our place as a global maritime leader,” he stated.
A Bright Future for Nigeria’s Maritime Sector
Dr. Dantsoho’s election marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria and the broader West and Central African maritime community. His leadership promises to drive transformative changes, fostering regional growth and global relevance in the maritime industry.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
Pythrocin distributed by Pinnacle Health Pharmaceuticals Ltd
