The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has highlighted the disparity between Nigeria’s population and its cargo throughput capacity, calling for urgent action to expand and modernize the country’s ports.
Speaking at the commissioning of the newly remodeled ITF secretariat of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) on Wednesday, Dantsoho described the current state of port infrastructure as a major obstacle to Nigeria’s economic potential.
“Nigeria is a country of over 200 million people, yet we are only bringing in 2 million containers annually. This is not a true reflection of our population or economic potential.
It is unacceptable that smaller neighboring countries like Ghana and Benin are handling more containers than we do. This must change.” he said
The NPA boss emphasized that improving cargo throughput requires the modernization of port infrastructure, including the expansion of the Tin Can Island and Apapa Ports.
“We cannot continue to rely on ports that were built decades ago—TinCan in 1977 and Apapa in 1958. These facilities are outdated and cannot support the level of trade Nigeria needs to thrive internationally,”
Dantsoho assured stakeholders that the federal government is committed to addressing these challenges, with plans already in motion to upgrade existing ports and develop new ones.
“The government, under the leadership of Mr. President and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, is committed to expanding Tin Can and Apapa Ports and modernizing their infrastructure. This will happen soon because Nigeria cannot continue to trail behind smaller countries in West Africa,” he affirmed.
The NPA MD also stressed the importance of equipping ports with modern machinery and leveraging technology to improve efficiency and competitiveness, saying that “If we want larger vessels to dock at our ports, we must invest in the right equipment and technology. Without these, we cannot compete globally or attract the volume of trade our economy needs,”
“Increasing our cargo capacity means more productivity for our people, more jobs for our youth, and greater international recognition for Nigeria,” he added.
Acknowledging the role of workers in achieving these goals, Dr. Dantsoho pledged the NPA’s commitment to staff welfare and urged stakeholders to contribute to revenue generation.
“When workers are motivated and their welfare is prioritized, productivity improves. However, for us to meet these demands, we need more revenue. It’s a collective effort,” he said.
Dr. Dantsoho also praised MWUN’s leadership, particularly the President General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, for transforming the union and fostering peace in the maritime sector.
“I commend my brother for his leadership. The union has shown that with the right motivation and collaboration, we can achieve great things and leave a legacy for future generations,” he said.
In his remarks, MWUN President General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, expressed gratitude to Dr. Dantsoho for his support and historic visit.
“You are the first Managing Director of NPA to visit our secretariat. This shows you are not just a leader but also a father and a grassroots worker of the Nigerian Ports Authority. Under your leadership, we see hope for further transformation in the sector,” Adeyanju said.
Reflecting on the union’s progress, Adeyanju celebrated the transformation of MWUN from its past image to a professional and forward-thinking organization.
“People used to refer to us as touts, but that era is over. The days of thuggery, banging tables, and shutting down port operations are behind us. This secretariat represents our growth and commitment to progress,” he stated.
The event also marked Dr. Dantsoho’s recent appointment as Chairman of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA), a role for which Adeyanju congratulated him.
“Your new role as PMAWCA chairman is a testament to your leadership and dedication to the maritime sector. We are proud to have you leading us forward,” Adeyanju added
