The managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dontsh, has been chosen vice president of Africa of the International Association for Ports & Harbors (IAPH), further consolidating Nigeria’s growing influence on global maritime affairs.
The election, held on Tuesday in Tokyo, marks another milestone for DantSho, who previously made history as the first Nigerian in leading the Association of Port Management of Western and Central Africa since its establishment in 1972.
Confirming the victory in a statement on Tuesday, the NPA spokesman, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, said the appointment reflects the international recognition of the renewed leadership of Nigeria in maritime development. The general secretary of Iaph Masahiko Furuichi also welcomed the development, pointing out: “I am delighted to work with you in IHH in the coming years.”
Dontshh’s leadership in the NPA has been marked by the main operational profits, including a significant increase in non -oil exports and an improved commercial balance. According to the Nigeria Export Processing Council (NEPC), non -oil exports increased by 19.59% in the first half of 2025 to $ 3,225 billion, while export volumes on NPA platforms increased to 4.04 million metric tons. The Nigerian Economic Summit (NESG) group also accredited these reforms by helping Nigeria achieve a commercial surplus for the first time in years.
Founded in 1955 and based in Tokyo, IAPH is a global alliance of more than 190 ports and 167 companies related to the port in 89 countries. Collectively, its members handle more than 60% of trade and marine containers in the world. The body plays a key role in the configuration of global maritime policy, working closely with the International Maritime Organization, the World Customs Organization and the United Nations System.
The elevation of Dantsoho places Nigeria in the heart of the global debates of port politics, strengthening his voice in the advancement of commercial efficiency, the resilience of the port and sustainable growth in the maritime sector.
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