Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has been elected Vice-President for Africa of the International Association for Ports & Harbours (IAPH), further cementing Nigeria’s growing influence in global maritime affairs.

The election, held in Tokyo, marks another milestone for Dantsoho, who previously made history as the first Nigerian to lead the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa since its establishment in 1972.

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Confirming the victory in a statement on Tuesday, NPA spokesperson Ikechukwu Onyemekara said the appointment reflects international recognition of Nigeria’s renewed leadership in maritime development. IAPH Secretary-General Masahiko Furuichi also welcomed the development, noting, “I am delighted to work together with you in IAPH for the years to come.”

Dantsoho’s leadership at the NPA has been marked by major operational gains, including a significant rise in non-oil exports and an improved trade balance. According to the Nigerian Export Processing Council (NEPC), non-oil exports rose by 19.59% in the first half of 2025 to $3.225 billion, while export volumes on NPA platforms climbed to 4.04 million metric tonnes. The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) also credited these reforms with helping Nigeria achieve a trade surplus for the first time in years.

Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Tokyo, IAPH is a global alliance of more than 190 ports and 167 port-related businesses across 89 countries. Collectively, its members handle over 60% of the world’s seaborne trade and container traffic. The body plays a key role in shaping global maritime policy, working closely with the International Maritime Organization, World Customs Organization, and the United Nations system.

Dantsoho’s elevation places Nigeria at the heart of global port policy debates, strengthening its voice in advancing trade efficiency, port resilience, and sustainable growth in the maritime sector.