Paragraph 1: A New Era at the Nigerian Ports Authority
Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho’s appointment as Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) ten months ago has ushered in a period of significant transformation. His focus on professionalism and efficiency is reshaping the narrative surrounding the nation’s maritime sector, driving trade facilitation, and aligning with the Federal Government’s export growth strategy. Stakeholders acknowledge the profound nature of these changes, recognizing the potential for a paradigm shift in port operations and their contribution to the national economy. Dantsoho’s initial actions centered on maximizing cost and value within the NPA, tackling inefficiencies, plugging revenue leaks, and streamlining administrative expenses. These initiatives quickly yielded positive results, impacting debt recovery and collection, particularly with international oil companies and other key partners.
Paragraph 2: Recognition and Achievements
Dantsoho’s leadership has garnered widespread recognition, culminating in accolades from various media outlets. His transformative impact on the maritime sector earned him the title of Man of the Year by The Reporters Nigeria Magazine, alongside recognition from prominent news organizations like Vanguard and BusinessDay Newspapers. His contributions to port efficiency, trade facilitation, and strengthening Nigeria’s global maritime standing have been highlighted. Under his guidance, the NPA has sustained port efficiencies, contributing to an impressive N5.81 trillion (US$3.7 billion) international trade volume in the third quarter of 2024. Notably, he played a key role in implementing President Tinubu’s strategy to reduce petroleum imports, significantly impacting foreign exchange demand.
Paragraph 3: Regional Leadership and Revenue Growth
Dantsoho’s influence extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, exemplified by his presidency of the Port Management Association of West & Central Africa (PMAWCA). This position underscores Nigeria’s growing prominence in regional maritime affairs and reflects regional confidence in his leadership. He spearheaded Nigeria’s full membership in the International Port Community System Association, fostering trade transparency through the National Single Window project. Furthermore, he facilitated increased transshipment cargo processing from Lekki Deep Seaport, serving landlocked regions within Nigeria. Perhaps the most compelling testament to Dantsoho’s leadership is the remarkable surge in the NPA’s revenue. From N424.2 billion in 2023 to an unprecedented N893.6 billion in 2024, this 111% leap demonstrates the effectiveness of his strategic approach, driven by digital transformation, strategic investments, and enhanced fiscal transparency.
Paragraph 4: Collaboration and Modernization for Export Growth
Recognizing the Federal Government’s emphasis on exports, Dantsoho prioritized operational collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG). He emphasized the NPA’s commitment to supporting NLNG’s expansion plans, aligning with the growing global demand for liquefied natural gas. This collaborative approach aims to further solidify Nigeria’s position in the global energy market. Dantsoho’s vision extends to capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He recognizes the need for Nigerian ports to enhance their competitiveness to benefit from increased intra-African trade. This involves addressing infrastructural challenges, particularly at older ports, and positioning Nigeria as a key logistics hub within Africa.
Paragraph 5: Addressing Infrastructure and Efficiency Challenges
Dantsoho acknowledges the pressing need for modernization across Nigerian ports. While the Lekki Deep Seaport represents a modern addition, other ports face significant infrastructural deficits, including silted channels and dilapidated quays and breakwaters. To address these challenges, the NPA has embarked on a modernization project, prioritizing the Lagos Port Complex and Tincan Island Port Complex as pilot projects. A key element of this modernization effort is the implementation of the Port Community System/National Single Window, a digital platform designed to streamline information exchange among port stakeholders and facilitate one-stop shop payments. This system aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enhance operational efficiency. The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) and the NPA have also launched the Ports and Customs Efficiency Committee (PCEC) to further improve efficiency and ease of doing business at the ports.
Paragraph 6: Navigating High Port Charges and Embracing Automation
Despite the progress made, challenges remain. High port charges are a significant concern, rendering Nigerian ports less competitive compared to neighboring countries. This price disparity pushes cargo traffic to alternative ports in the region, impacting Nigeria’s potential revenue. Stakeholders like the Shipping Association of Nigeria have emphasized the urgency of addressing these high costs to maintain competitiveness. Further modernization of port infrastructure, particularly in Apapa and Tincan Island, is crucial for automating port operations and achieving greater efficiency. Modern ship-to-shore cranes and other automated systems require robust infrastructure to operate effectively. This technological upgrade is essential for reducing vessel turnaround times and enhancing overall port performance. Addressing these challenges will be vital for realizing the full potential of Nigerian ports and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and the evolving global trade landscape.
