Oyetola’s reforms reshaping maritime sector — NPA

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has attributed the ongoing transformation in Nigeria’s maritime sector to sweeping federal government reforms and the leadership of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, Dantsoho expressed confidence that Nigeria is well-positioned to emerge as a dominant force in Africa’s blue economy, citing strategic reforms and growing private sector participation as key drivers.

“The time has come for a paradigm shift in the structure of Nigeria’s economy towards the full utilisation of our marine resources. Our port system, if properly harnessed, can serve as a major driver of economic growth,” he said.

Dantsoho noted that Nigeria’s strategic geographic location, large population and economic strength provide a strong foundation for it to become the maritime hub of West Africa, comparable to global leaders.

“By virtue of our strategic location, market size and economic strength, Nigeria is well-positioned to function as the maritime hub for West Africa,” he added.

However, he expressed concern that the country is yet to fully maximise its potential, revealing that Nigeria currently handles only about 25 per cent of cargo traffic in the region despite accounting for over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP.

“This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” Dantsoho stated.

Reforms Driving Sector Growth

The NPA boss assured investors that the tide is turning, with the Federal Government implementing far-reaching reforms through the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

He listed key initiatives to include port modernisation, deployment of a Trade Single Window, implementation of a Port Community System, development of deep seaports, and full digitalisation of port operations.

“These strategic initiatives are repositioning our ports for global competitiveness and improving overall efficiency,” he said.

Dantsoho emphasised that private sector investment remains central to achieving the transformation agenda, noting that the NPA is actively promoting project financing to bridge infrastructure gaps.

“We are open to private sector participation. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing funding for critical infrastructure,” he explained.

He added that the reforms are expected to enhance connectivity, reduce freight costs, attract larger vessels, and boost non-oil exports.

“The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, expand our export base and significantly increase revenue generation,” he noted.

Oyetola Highlights Nigeria’s Natural Advantage

Also speaking, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, highlighted Nigeria’s natural endowments as a major advantage in the global maritime space.

“With over 823 kilometres of coastline, extensive inland waterways and a prime location along the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria is uniquely positioned to harness the immense potential of the marine and blue economy,” he said.

He added that ongoing reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security and boosted investor confidence in the sector.

According to the Minister, the maritime sector accounts for over 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade by volume, underscoring its critical role in national economic development.

Dantsoho stressed that achieving global competitiveness would require sustained efficiency, competitive pricing, and strong hinterland connectivity, noting that Nigerian ports must adapt to evolving global shipping trends.

“With sustained commitment to these initiatives, Nigeria’s port system will enter a new phase and emerge as a leading maritime logistics hub in Africa,” he assured.

Industry stakeholders say the ongoing reforms signal a new direction for the sector, with growing optimism that Nigeria can fully harness its maritime potential and take a leading position in Africa’s blue economy.