As the world’s maritime leaders gather in Kobe, Japan, for the World Port Conference (IAPH 2025), Nigeria is making its presence felt through the forward-thinking leadership of Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Representing Africa’s largest economy, Dr. Dantsoho is spearheading discussions on how ports can reinvent themselves amid global uncertainty under the conference’s theme, “Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times.” The summit, which draws policymakers and industry experts from more than 89 nations, serves as a platform for collaboration on innovation, digital transformation, and environmental resilience in the maritime sector.
In an update shared on the NPA’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Authority revealed that Dr. Dantsoho and his team will embark on an extensive tour of Kobe’s advanced port facilities. The visit will expose them to Japan’s expertise in seismic-resistant engineering and smart logistics systems — critical models for Nigeria’s ambitious Port Modernization Program.
“These lessons will directly inform our modernization agenda, driving the shift toward efficiency, automation, and environmental sustainability across Nigeria’s ports,” the Authority stated.
The modernization blueprint focuses on digital integration, infrastructure renewal, and reduced carbon emissions — positioning Nigerian ports to compete with global standards while meeting the growing demand for green operations.
The IAPH conference also aligns with the NPA’s recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with APM Terminals, which targets the electrification of container freight to cut carbon footprints and promote clean energy adoption in port logistics.
Dr. Dantsoho’s participation goes beyond dialogue; it’s an active pursuit of partnerships. On the sidelines of the conference, he is expected to engage with global investors and port innovators, exploring collaborations that could accelerate infrastructure upgrades and equipment renewal within Nigeria’s ports.
By aligning with global sustainability trends and leveraging international expertise, the NPA is signaling its commitment to not only modernize Nigeria’s ports but transform them into eco-efficient, digitally driven trade gateways that can sustain economic growth well into the future.
