The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening maritime cooperation, with a renewed focus on hydrography, navigational safety, port development and capacity building.
This was the outcome of a courtesy visit by the Deputy British High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, the United Kingdom National Hydrographer, Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh, and officials of the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) to the Managing Director of the NPA.
The delegation was received by the NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, alongside the Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services, and other senior management officials of the Authority.
During the meeting, both parties explored opportunities for strengthening the longstanding maritime partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, particularly in areas critical to safe navigation, port efficiency and sustainable maritime development.
Speaking during the engagement, the NPA Managing Director highlighted the Authority’s ongoing modernisation initiatives aimed at transforming Nigeria’s ports into globally competitive trade gateways.
He outlined major investments being undertaken by the Authority, including port rehabilitation projects, channel improvements and critical infrastructure upgrades designed to boost operational efficiency, improve vessel turnaround time and enhance Nigeria’s position in regional and international maritime trade.
The discussions also focused on advancing hydrographic capabilities to support safer navigation and more efficient port operations across Nigeria’s waterways.
The UK delegation reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s hydrographic development through technical cooperation and knowledge sharing.
According to the delegation, areas of support will include nautical charting, implementation of S-100 hydrographic standards, digitalisation of maritime information systems and professional training programmes for NPA personnel.
The visitors noted that enhanced hydrographic services and modern navigational tools are essential for maritime safety, trade facilitation and the growth of the blue economy.
Both sides expressed optimism that the collaboration would further strengthen maritime operations, improve navigational safety and support the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s port sector.
The meeting underscored the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom and their shared commitment to promoting innovation, capacity development and sustainable growth within the maritime industry.
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