The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has emphasised that stronger cooperation among African nations is vital for the collective growth and advancement of seaports across the continent.
According to a statement by the NPA, Dantsoho made this known at the closing ceremony of the 45th Annual Council Meeting of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA), held in Pointe-Noire, Congo, on Sunday.
Dantsoho, who also serves as the President of PMAWCA, commended the high level of enthusiasm and selflessness displayed during the association’s technical sessions and deliberations. He noted that the commitment shown by participants demonstrated that ports within the region were well-prepared to tackle emerging maritime challenges with renewed optimism.
Represented by the General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara, Dantsoho said the resolutions from the week-long event would guide policy development and reinforce government initiatives across member countries.
“On behalf of all of us at PMAWCA, I sincerely appreciate your dedication to advancing trade and prosperity through innovative ideas and collaboration aimed at unlocking Africa’s maritime potential.
“I have always envisioned an era when African nations would work together in good faith to achieve the collective good of our continent. Judging by the passion and commitment witnessed throughout the sessions, it is clear that ports in West and Central Africa are ready to embrace the future with confidence,” he said.
He reaffirmed that Africa’s geographic and economic landscape calls for deeper integration and cooperation, especially in light of the rapidly changing global maritime industry.
Dantsoho also expressed appreciation to the government and people of the Republic of Congo for hosting the conference, as well as to the Secretary-General of PMAWCA, Mr. Koffi Marie, and the Port of Pointe-Noire management team for their excellent coordination.
He praised the unity of purpose demonstrated by the chief executives and directors-general of member ports, describing their contributions as instrumental to the success of the meeting.
Dantsoho assured participants that the key resolutions from the conference would be acted upon, stressing that the insights shared would influence policy direction and encourage proactive government engagement.
“As delegates return to their respective countries, I urge everyone to maintain the spirit of collaboration. As Henry Ford once said, ‘Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success,’” he added.