The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for stronger regional collaboration to advance Africa's maritime sector during the closing ceremony of the 45th Annual Council Meeting of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA).
Unity Essential for Maritime Progress
Speaking at the event held in Pointe-Noire, Republic of Congo, Dr Dantsoho, who also serves as PMAWCA President, emphasized that Africa's interconnectedness demands deeper cooperation for sustainable port growth and regional prosperity. Represented by Mr Ikechukwu Onyemekara, NPA's General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Dantsoho praised the high level of enthusiasm and commitment displayed by delegates throughout the week-long sessions.
The maritime leader expressed confidence that West and Central African ports are well-prepared to tackle emerging challenges through robust exchange of ideas and collective action. He commended delegates for dedicating their expertise to formulating strategies that will enable the sub-region to maximize its maritime potential.
From Discussion to Implementation
Dantsoho assured participants that resolutions and communiqué from the Council meeting would receive proper attention and effective implementation across member states. He stressed that the insights generated from the convergence of maritime professionals would guide future policies and strengthen government actions aimed at optimizing Africa's maritime advantages.
The NPA boss extended appreciation to the Republic of Congo for hosting the event and acknowledged the coordination efforts of PMAWCA Secretary-General Mr Koffi Jean Marie, the Port of Pointe-Noire team, and all stakeholders. He particularly noted the remarkable unity and active participation of Directors-General and Chief Executives from member ports.
Sustaining Collaborative Momentum
As the conference concluded, Dantsoho encouraged participants to maintain the spirit of collaboration beyond the meeting, quoting industrialist Henry Ford: "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success."
The 2025 PMAWCA meeting concluded with reinforced commitment to creating a united, innovative maritime community dedicated to driving Africa's port development and regional integration. The event highlighted Africa's unique geographical and economic interdependence, particularly amid rapid changes in global shipping and logistics.
In related developments, the Port Reforms Advocacy Network (PRAN) has praised Dantsoho's leadership in modernizing Nigeria's seaports and boosting trade competitiveness. The group described his reforms as visionary policies driving non-oil export growth and positioning Nigeria as a regional maritime hub.
