Dantsoho Credits FG Reforms, Oyetola’s Leadership For Maritime Sector Revamp; Says Nigeria Can Lead Africa’s Blue Economy

By Abdul Gboyega | Abuja

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has credited ongoing federal government reforms and the impact of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, for the transformation of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Speaking at the Blue Economy Investment Summit in Abuja, Dantsoho assured investors that Nigeria has the capacity to dominate Africa’s blue economy, with the port system playing a pivotal role in unlocking strategic investments and accelerating growth.

“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 location, large population, and economic strength position it to become a maritime hub for West Africa, comparable to Singapore and Morocco.

Despite controlling over 60 per cent of West Africa’s GDP, he expressed concern that Nigeria currently handles only about 25 per cent of the region’s cargo traffic. “This clearly shows that we have not fully optimised our potential,” he said.

He assured investors that reforms by the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy are repositioning the sector. Key initiatives 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.

“We are open to private sector participation through project financing. This approach is already improving efficiency and providing access to funding for critical infrastructure,” Dantsoho stated.

He said the reforms aim to improve port efficiency, connectivity, reduce freight costs, and boost non-oil exports to drive revenue growth. “The ultimate goal is to improve liner connectivity, attract bigger vessels, reduce freight costs, and expand our export base, which will significantly boost revenue generation.”

Dantsoho added that global competitiveness requires efficient operations, competitive pricing, and strong hinterland connectivity. “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 said.

Also speaking, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola said Nigeria’s 823-kilometre coastline and extensive inland waterways position it to lead the sector. “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.

Oyetola added that federal government reforms have improved coordination, strengthened maritime security, and boosted investor confidence. He noted that the sector accounts for over 90 per cent of Nigeria’s international trade by volume.