Abubakar Dantsoho
BY GODWIN OBI
Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has earned widespread acclaim from maritime stakeholders and port users for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and automation.
Stakeholders who shared their views on the performance of the NPA’s helmsman were of the firm belief that Dantsoho’s visionary leadership was already transforming Nigeria’s ports into efficient, globally competitive hubs for trade, as well as significantly boosting revenue despite foreign exchange volatility.
In his submission, a foremost freight forwarder and current Relationship Manager in-charge of VAT Direct Initiative/Single Haulage Fee, Chief Dr. Festus Ukwu, commended Dantsoho for prioritizing the modernization and expansion of port infrastructure as a cornerstone of his tenure.
Chief Dr. Ukwu, whose new office takes charge of all Freight Forwarding and Customs Brokerage Groups Across Nigeria for Integrated Market Traders Revenue Management System, noted the critical role ports play in facilitating import and export, and commended Dantsoho for implementing strategic upgrades to enhance operational efficiency and accommodate the growing demands of global trade.
Ukwu who is also Secretary General of the Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents said that Dantsoho’s commitment to efficiency, productivity, and collaboration is expected to drive higher revenue generation and set a benchmark for maritime operations in the region.
And another seasoned freight forwarder, Chief Ezennia Gilbert K. Obi in a separate interview with Frontline Reporters also expressed optimism that the NPA helmsman would sustain expansion of his focus on infrastructure development to include upgrading cargo handling facilities to reduce turnaround times, as well as expand port capacity to handle larger vessels.
He further commended Dantsoho for his strategic strides in modernizing storage facilities and equipment to meet international standards, as well as improving road and rail connectivity for seamless transportation of goods.
CHIEF EZENNIA GILBERT OBI
Chief Obi optimized that these advancements not only bolster the competitiveness of Nigerian ports but also reinforce their role as key enablers of economic growth in the region, adding that Dantsoho has also embraced automation as a pivotal strategy for improving port operations. The deployment of digital technologies aims to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, improve transparency, and streamline processes for businesses operating within Nigerian ports.
According to him, “These reforms align with Nigeria’s broader objectives of enhancing the ease of doing business, attracting foreign investment, and fostering a more efficient trade environment”.
“Despite challenges such as the depreciation of the Naira and foreign exchange fluctuations, Dantsoho’s leadership has resulted in increased revenue for the NPA. This financial success underscores the positive impact of his infrastructure and automation initiatives, demonstrating that strategic investments in modernization can yield substantial economic benefits even in difficult times” Chief Obi remarked
It could be recalled that since the appointment of the new Managing Director of the NPA, there had been wide Praise from maritime stakeholders, as several Port users have continued to commend Dantsoho for his proactive and transformative approach, as testimonials highlight a newfound confidence in the NPA’s ability to deliver efficient services and support business growth.
Many stakeholders view these developments as a long-overdue solution to the inefficiencies that have historically hindered Nigeria’s ports. The improvements have not only enhanced the user experience but also solidified Nigeria’s position as a critical player in international trade.
Dantsoho had said that “Our focus on automation aligns with the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business agenda, ensuring that stakeholders can interact effortlessly at the push of a button.
This system will revolutionize trade and position Nigeria as a competitive global player,” he added.
On NPA’s Special Day at the trade fair recently, Dr. Dantsoho called on the trading and investing public to take advantage of the transformative opportunities presented by the Nigerian Ports Authority.“
The future of trade in Nigeria is promising, and we are committed to creating pathways that connect businesses, drive value, and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity,” he concluded
This forward-thinking initiative by the NPA marks a significant step toward enhancing Nigeria’s export capabilities, fostering economic diversification, and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Many stakeholders are of the opinion that Dantsoho’s tenure is a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership, underscoring the potential of Nigeria’s ports to become world-class trade hubs.
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