Minister Oyetola Hails NPA MD Dantsoho on Election as IAPH Vice President
- Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, MD of NPA, has been elected Vice President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH)
- Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, congratulated him, describing the achievement as recognition of Nigeria’s leadership in the sector
- He expressed confidence in Dantsoho’s new role to strengthen Nigeria’s influence in global maritime policy and foster greater international collaboration
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The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has congratulated Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), on his election as Vice President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH).

Source: UGC
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Oyetola described Dantsoho’s election as a reflection of his exemplary leadership and an acknowledgement of Nigeria’s growing relevance in global maritime affairs.
He noted that the achievement underscores the progress made under the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme, which aims to strengthen the nation’s blue economy.
According to him, the recognition affirms Nigeria’s commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and globally competitive maritime sector.
Oyetola said:
“This election is a recognition of the ongoing reforms to reposition Nigerian ports and the blue economy drive of the Federal Government. It validates our commitment to creating a more efficient, secure, and competitive maritime environment, which is a key component of our national economic strategy."
The Minister explained that the government’s port reform initiative is focused on upgrading infrastructure, adopting advanced technology, and improving operational efficiency to align Nigerian ports with global standards and establish the country as a leading maritime hub in Africa.
The IAPH, which represents more than 300 ports and port-related organisations across 90 countries, works closely with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and other United Nations agencies.
It plays a central role in setting international port standards, encouraging sustainable practices, and promoting industry-wide cooperation.
Oyetola expressed confidence that Dr. Dantsoho’s new position within the IAPH will not only enhance Nigeria’s influence in global maritime policy discussions but also strengthen international partnerships that will benefit the nation’s port and blue economy agenda.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu appointed Dantsoho in July 2024 to head the NPA and transform its operations to global standards.
Commending President Tinubu for establishing the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, Dantsoho said the new ministry has strengthened efforts to implement ambitious plans for the maritime sector.

Source: Twitter
Dantsoho urges African nations to harness marine strengths
In related news, Legit.ng earlier reported that the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA) called on African nations to convert their marine comparative advantages into economic growth.
The association's president emphasised the importance of regional collaboration and data-driven decision-making in port management.
He also commended the creation of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry, noting that it has strengthened efforts to develop the sector.
Source: Legit.ng