By DAYO ADESULU
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho, has emphasized the need for increased investment to maintain the competitiveness of Nigerian ports. Dantsoho made this statement during an operational and investment tour of the Onne and Rivers Port Complexes on Thursday.
The visit is part of his ongoing efforts to encourage port concessionaires and terminal operators to boost their in-country investments in port infrastructure and equipment.
Enhancing Competitiveness in the Maritime Sector
Dantsoho’s tour follows recent visits to Lagos Ports, including Apapa and Tin Can Island, highlighting his commitment to positioning Nigerian ports as competitive hubs for vessel and cargo traffic.
“We must match the infrastructure and investment levels of our maritime neighbors along the West and Central African Coast. This is essential to accommodate larger vessels, increase cargo throughput, and serve Nigeria’s population of over 200 million effectively,” Dantsoho said.
Strategic Vision for Nigerian Ports
Underlining the mandate given by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Dantsoho stressed the NPA’s readiness to create an enabling environment for private-sector investments.
He stated, “The reality of Nigerian ports processing only 2 million containers for a population of over 200 million is an anomaly that demands immediate attention. Significant investments in port infrastructure and equipment are critical to addressing this issue.”
Opportunities for Investors
Dantsoho urged investors to seize the favorable conditions in Nigeria’s maritime sector, assuring them of a conducive atmosphere and attractive returns on their investments.
“With the right infrastructure and equipment, we can scale up operations and attract larger vessels, ensuring the long-term viability of our ports,” he added.
Driving Nigeria’s Maritime Growth
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to position Nigeria as a key player in regional and global maritime trade. Dantsoho’s leadership underscores the importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors to achieve this goal.
Key Takeaways
- The Nigerian Ports Authority is pushing for more private investments to modernize port infrastructure.
- Current port capacity is inadequate for Nigeria’s growing population and economy.
- The NPA is committed to creating a business-friendly environment to attract global investors.
