Dantsoho Credits Reforms, Oyetola’s Leadership for Maritime Sector Transformation

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, has attributed ongoing transformation in Nigeria’s maritime sector to sweeping reforms by the federal government and the leadership of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, Dantsoho assured investors that Nigeria is well-positioned to dominate Africa’s blue economy if current reforms are sustained.

He said the country’s port system would play a central role in unlocking investments and accelerating economic growth, stressing the need for a shift in economic focus toward marine resources.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.

Dantsoho noted that Nigeria’s strategic location, population size and economic strength place it in a strong position to emerge as a maritime hub for West Africa, drawing comparisons with global players such as Singapore and Morocco.

However, he expressed concern that the country currently handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in the region despite accounting for more than 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP.

“It is worrisome that Nigeria, despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

He assured stakeholders that the situation is improving, citing ongoing reforms by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy aimed at repositioning the sector.

According to him, key initiatives include port modernisation, deployment of a Trade Single Window, implementation of a Port Community System, development of deep seaports, and full digitalisation of port operations.

“We are implementing key strategic initiatives such as port modernisation, trade single window, port community system, deep seaport development and full digitalisation to reposition our ports for global competitiveness,” he stated.

Dantsoho emphasised the importance of private sector participation, noting that the NPA is encouraging project financing to address infrastructure gaps and enhance operational efficiency.

“We are open to private sector participation through project financing. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,” he said.

He added that the reforms are designed to improve connectivity, attract larger vessels, reduce freight costs and boost non-oil exports, ultimately strengthening revenue generation.

“The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, attract bigger vessels, reduce freight costs, and expand our export base, which will significantly boost revenue generation,” he noted.

Dantsoho stressed that Nigeria must remain competitive by improving efficiency, pricing and hinterland connectivity, adding that adaptability to global shipping trends is critical.

“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he assured.

Also speaking, Oyetola highlighted Nigeria’s natural advantages, including its 823-kilometre coastline and extensive inland waterways, which position it strongly within the global maritime space.

“With over 823 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and a prime location along the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to harness the immense potential of the marine and blue economy,” he said.

He added that federal government reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence, noting that the sector accounts for more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade by volume.