The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has emphasized that the interconnectedness and interdependence of African nations make cooperation an essential precondition for the collective advancement of seaports across the continent.
Speaking in his capacity as President of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA) at the closing ceremony of the 45th Annual Council in Pointe‑Noire, Congo,
Dantsoho said the enthusiasm, goodwill and altruism displayed throughout the week‑long technical sessions convinced him that ports in the sub‑region are well‑positioned to confront future challenges with renewed confidence.
Represented by General Manager Corporate Affairs Ikechukwu Onyemekara, he noted that the resolutions from the meeting will shape policy formulation and strengthen government action across member states.
“On behalf of all of us at PMAWCA, thank you immensely for lending your time and expertise to advancing the frontiers of trade and prosperity,” Dantsoho said, adding that the convergence of West and Central African talent is generating ideas to optimize maritime and demographic opportunities, giving direction to policy and emboldening government action.
He reiterated that Africa’s geographical and economic realities demand stronger integration, especially amid a rapidly evolving global maritime environment.
He expressed gratitude to the government and people of the Republic of Congo for their hospitality, commended PMAWCA Secretary‑General Mr Koffi Jean Marie and the Port of Pointe‑Noire team for their coordination, and praised the unity of Directors‑General and Chief Executives, calling their contributions “remarkable.”
Invoking Henry Ford’s words, Dantsoho urged delegates to sustain collaboration: “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”