Dantsoho sets the agenda for the growth of African ports

Dantsoho sets the agenda for the growth of African ports

…Inaugurated as VP IAPH

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has outlined his key priorities to promote port development across the continent. This is in the context of his installation as Vice President (Africa) of the International Association of Harbors and Harbors (IAPH),

Speaking after his inauguration at the recently concluded World Ports Conference, themed “Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times”, held in Kobe, Japan, Dantsoho said his focus will be on effective policy implementation, greater collaboration, enhanced cooperation and improved trade facilitation within the African ports sector.

It may be recalled that African ports play a vital role in global trade, but face challenges such as infrastructure deficits, policy inconsistency and limited technological adoption.

However, the NPA MD said that unified action among African port authorities and stakeholders to address the challenges facing African ports will be central to his leadership agenda at IAPH.

According to him, his administration, through the implementation of port innovation, will achieve tangible and sustainable returns on investments in high-risk environments.

“This responsibility has stimulated more than ever my determination to be at the forefront in galvanizing national and regional political actions aimed at institutionalizing the eco-friendliness of ports in line with the dictates of the IAPH Global Ports Sustainability Programme.

“Reinventing and thriving in turbulent times through implementing port innovation to achieve tangible and sustainable investment returns in high-risk environments is a global need that the world can overcome more efficiently if IAPH members speak with one voice through renewed collaboration and cooperation.”

The NPA chief also said he would support the full automation of African ports to eliminate trade barriers.

“I intend to use my current role as President of the Pan-African Association for Port Cooperation (PAPC) to more intentionally promote collaboration and cooperation.

“Aware of the catalytic role of automation as the linchpin of port efficiency and sustainability, I intend to drive greater action behind the need for full automation of African ports as the most authentic tool for the elimination of trade barriers,” he concluded.