NPA Boss champions energy transition, port digitalisation at World Seaports Conference
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has called for increased global collaboration on energy transition, decarbonisation, and the digitalisation of port operations as critical drivers of sustainable maritime growth.
Dr. Dantsoho made the call while addressing global seaport leaders and industry experts at the 2025 World Seaports Conference in Kobe, Japan, themed “Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times.”
The high-level event gathered port executives and policymakers from over 89 countries.
Highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to modernising its port operations, Dr. Dantsoho noted that the NPA’s ongoing reforms align with the global sustainability agenda.
He cited the Authority’s recent Memorandum of Understanding with APM Terminals to electrify container freight operations at the Lagos Ports Complex as a major step toward reducing Nigeria's carbon emissions footprint.
He reaffirmed NPA’s dedication to full port automation and digital integration, stressing that technological innovation, cleaner energy, and infrastructure resilience are central to the new marine and blue economy policy approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In recognition of his leadership and Nigeria’s growing influence, seaport professionals from over 64 countries unanimously endorsed Dr. Dantsoho’s recent election as Vice-President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH), a global body representing over 190 ports worldwide.
During the conference, Dr. Dantsoho toured Japan’s Kobe Port facilities to study seismic-resilient infrastructure and smart logistics systems that can enhance Nigeria’s port modernisation programme.
He also held strategic meetings with potential investors to explore partnerships for the Authority’s infrastructure and equipment renewal projects.
With his new IAPH leadership role, Nigeria is increasingly positioned as a key player in shaping the future of international port development and sustainability.