By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, says Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy if ongoing reforms in the maritime sector are sustained.
Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja on Wwdnesday, Dantsoho attributed the transformation in the sector to reforms introduced by the Federal Government and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources,” he said.
“Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth.”The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, says Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy if ongoing reforms in the maritime sector are sustained.
Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja on Wwdnesday, Dantsoho attributed the transformation in the sector to reforms introduced by the Federal Government and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources,” he said.
“Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth.”
Nigeria Underperforming Despite Economic Strength
Dantsoho, however, expressed concern that Nigeria is not fully maximising its maritime potential.
“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,” he said.
He noted that this gap highlights the need for urgent reforms to reposition the country as a leading maritime hub in the region.
Reforms to Boost Investment, Efficiency
The NPA boss outlined key initiatives being implemented to transform the sector, including port modernisation, deployment of a Trade Single Window, a Port Community System, development of deep seaports and full digitalisation of operations.
“We are implementing key strategic initiatives… to reposition our ports for global competitiveness,” he stated.
He added that these reforms are expected to improve efficiency, reduce freight costs, enhance connectivity and boost non-oil exports.
Private Sector Key to Growth
Dantsoho stressed that private sector participation is critical to achieving the desired transformation, noting that the NPA is encouraging project financing to address infrastructure gaps.
“We are open to private sector participation… this approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,”* he said.
Nigeria Positioned as Maritime Hub
He said Nigeria’s strategic location and economic strength position it to serve as a maritime hub for West Africa.
“By virtue of our strategic location, market size and economic strength, Nigeria is well-positioned to function as the maritime hub for West Africa,” he added.
Oyetola Highlights Nigeria’s Advantage
Also speaking, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said Nigeria’s natural endowments give it a strong edge in the sector.
“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 reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence.
Oyetola noted that the maritime sector accounts for over 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade by volume, underscoring its importance to the economy.
