NPA MD: Modernization, Partnerships Key to Unlocking Ports’ Potential

“NPA MD: Modernization, Partnerships Key to Unlocking Ports’ Potential

By prince Benson Davies

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to promoting increased investor participation in ports development. Speaking at the Investopedia Global Lagos Summit, NPA Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho highlighted the government’s efforts to boost the productivity levels of all the nation’s maritime gateways.

Dr. Dantsoho emphasized that Nigerian ports are investment-ready, with numerous opportunities for productive public-private partnerships. He cited the successful venture at the Lekki Deep Seaport as an example of the potential for growth and development in the sector.

The NPA MD also highlighted the government’s modernization programs, including the National Single Window (NSW) and approvals for ports rehabilitation and truck electronic access. These initiatives, he said, demonstrate the government’s commitment to the port sector and its readiness to make Nigeria’s ports fertile grounds for local and foreign investors.

Dr. Dantsoho also emphasized the importance of modern, resilient ports and integrated logistics systems in unlocking Africa’s trade potential. He noted that Nigeria’s size and location position it as West Africa’s trade gateway, supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and providing access to landlocked markets.

The NPA MD’s remarks were made during a strategic panel discussion on “Infrastructure & Logistics for Africa’s Next Phase of Trade” at the Investopedia Global Lagos Summit. The summit brought together global investors, senior government officials, and industry leaders to explore opportunities across infrastructure, logistics, energy transition, financial systems, and secure supply chains.

The Investopedia Summit, co-hosted by Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), brought together global investors, senior government officials, and industry leaders to explore opportunities across infrastructure, logistics, energy transition, financial systems, and secure supply chains. The summit highlighted Nigeria’s potential as a hub for regional and global trade, with Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), emphasizing the importance of integrated logistics platforms, streamlined customs processes, and coordinated inland depots to improve trade flow and reduce congestion at ports.

The summit builds on momentum from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to the UAE, during which Nigeria and the UAE signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to deepen cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics, and digital trade. The agreement demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to attracting global capital and investment, and positions the country as an attractive destination for businesses and investors.

President Tinubu’s announcement of Lagos as the co-host city for Investopedia reflects Nigeria’s commitment to advancing port reforms, improving operational efficiency, and promoting sustainable maritime practices. The President emphasized the importance of mobilizing private capital through bankable projects and credible public-private partnership frameworks, and highlighted the potential for strategic partnerships with global investors like the UAE to strengthen Nigeria’s supply chains and position the country as a hub for regional and global trade.

The summit featured a range of speakers, including the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; CEO of Investopia, Dr. Jean Fares; UAE Minister of Investment, Mohamed H. Alsuwaidi; and business leaders Femi Otedola and Ademola Adeyemi-Bero