Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA) has appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho as the chairman of the association.
This marks the first time a Nigerian has held this prestigious position. The election occurred during the 44th annual council and the 19th Directors General Roundtable of PMAWCA in Conakry, Guinea. In his acceptance speech, Dantsoho emphasized the election as a milestone for maritime states in the region, underlining Nigeria’s commitment to maritime sector reforms. These reforms include port modernization, infrastructure development, and digital automation to enhance operational efficiency and boost non-oil export growth.
“It is with great honour and privilege that I stand before my friends from the countries of West and Central Africa today to accept the mantle of leadership of our great association, PMAWCA and to serve as its chairman,” Mr Dantsoho said.
Chair’s objectives
Dantsoho outlined plans to relocate PMAWCA’s headquarters to Lagos, Nigeria, to provide a more prominent and functional base for the association. He also highlighted a commitment to addressing the training needs of PMAWCA members and promoting collaboration among member states to achieve shared goals.
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, lauded Dantsoho’s election as a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. Oyetola emphasized the strategic importance of Nigeria’s maritime sector and its potential to transform the economy through job creation and improved livelihoods. He stated that establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry reflects the government’s resolve to position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s maritime industry. This development is expected to foster greater regional integration and further Nigeria’s efforts to leverage its maritime assets for national and regional economic growth.