The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has expressed grief over the death of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, who served as the authority's General Manager and Chief Executive from 1975 to 1982. Tukur died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 90.
NPA Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho conveyed the authority's condolences in a statement signed by Ikechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager of Corporate Affairs. Dantsoho also joined the Executive Governor of Adamawa State to receive the remains of the late businessman and elder statesman.
NPA MD Pays Tribute to a Pillar of Trade Facilitation
In his tribute, Dantsoho said the NPA stood with the family of the deceased and the wider Nigerian public during this period of grief. He described Tukur as a pillar of trade facilitation and an inspiration to many.
"I will like to on behalf of the entire Management and Staff of the NPA express our profound condolences and deepest sympathies to his immediate family, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and indeed the good people of Adamawa State on the demise of a pillar of trade facilitation and an inspiration to many," Dantsoho said.
A Seven-Year Tenure That Shaped Nigeria's Ports
Tukur led the NPA during a formative period for the country's maritime sector. His tenure spanned seven years, during which the authority played a central role in managing Nigeria's port infrastructure and trade operations.
Widely regarded as a distinguished figure in Nigerian business and public life, Tukur was credited with helping to build the foundations of Nigeria's ports administration. His death has drawn condolences from within the global trade facilitation community, according to the NPA statement.
A Legacy in Trade and Public Service
Beyond his time at the NPA, Tukur built a reputation as an international businessman and statesman, with influence that extended well beyond Nigeria's borders. The authority described him as an inspiration to many and acknowledged his contribution to the sector.
Previously, Legit.ng reported that President Bola Tinubu expressed grief over Tukur's passing. In a statement from Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President regarded Tukur as a "towering figure" whose life's work touched public administration, governance, industry, politics and pan-African business leadership.
Tukur, who was also a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was buried in Yola, Adamawa State, following his death on Saturday. The NPA's tribute marks the latest recognition of his contributions to Nigeria's maritime and political history.
