Dr. Abubarka Dantsoho
BY GODWIN OBI
In a bold move that promises to reshape Nigeria’s maritime future, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has unveiled an ambitious plan to increase the nation’s annual container traffic from 2 million to a staggering 7 million. This aggressive expansion is part of a larger, multi-million dollar modernization effort aimed at transforming Nigeria’s ports into the premier maritime hub for West and Central Africa.
Dr. Dantsoho, who was on a familiarization tour of the Lagos Ports this week, stressed that modern infrastructure and cutting-edge technology are critical to realizing this vision. He envisions a future where Nigeria’s ports handle a far greater share of global shipping, attracting major players like Maersk, which currently only sends a fraction of its annual global container shipments to the country.
“We are striving for efficiency and growth in a market that is ripe for expansion,” Dr. Dantsoho said. “With a population of over 200 million people and a rapidly growing economy, the current container traffic of 2 million per year is far too low. Lagos alone could justify much higher volumes, and this is the challenge we face.”
The plan comes at a critical time when global shipping companies are seeking more efficient, technologically advanced ports to support their growing container fleets. Dr. Dantsoho highlighted the need for extensive investment in port infrastructure and cargo handling equipment to meet these demands.
Lagos Ports, the largest and most economically significant of NPA’s operations, was the starting point for his tour. “It’s only fitting that we begin here in Lagos, the heart of our port operations, before extending our efforts to the eastern ports,” Dr. Dantsoho explained. “This region contributes immensely to the nation’s economy, and its modernization will serve as the model for broader reforms.”
While Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with Onne Port as a key offshore logistics hub, remains a major economic driver, the NPA boss stressed the urgent need to expand container cargo operations to position Nigeria as a leader in regional maritime trade.
Dr. Dantsoho also revealed that efforts are already underway to secure federal government approval for a major port modernization project, which will include dredging, technological upgrades, and the full integration of the Port Community System into a National Single Window. This system will streamline operations, reduce corruption, and enhance transparency, making Nigerian ports more competitive on the global stage.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the country’s renewed bid for Category C membership in the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Dr. Dantsoho underscored Nigeria’s growing influence in global maritime affairs. He also pointed to Nigeria’s recent election as the chair of the West and Central Africa Port Management Association (PMOWCA) as a testament to the country’s regional leadership and its efforts to rally support for this bold vision.
“We’re not just talking about numbers here; we’re talking about transforming Nigeria into a true maritime powerhouse,” Dr. Dantsoho said with optimism. “By leveraging our natural advantages and modernizing our ports, we will not only boost container traffic but also accelerate Nigeria’s economic growth and solidify our position as the gateway to West and Central Africa.”
With the NPA’s ambitious goals in sight, the future of Nigeria’s ports looks brighter than ever.
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2024-11-27