Regional maritime leaders gather in Nigeria to discuss port expansion, trade resilience, security, and the future of shipping infrastructure across West and Central Africa…..
Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, is set to formally declare open the board of directors meeting of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa in Lagos on Monday.
The three-day meeting, scheduled to run from May 18 to 20, is expected to bring together top maritime executives, port administrators, and senior industry stakeholders from across West and Central Africa to discuss the future of regional port development and maritime cooperation.
In a statement, the Nigerian Ports Authority said the gathering would focus on strengthening regional logistics systems, modernising port infrastructure, improving trade connectivity, and deepening collaboration among member states.
The summit is themed, “Ports of the Future: Combining Logistical Resilience with Inclusive Community Development.”
According to the NPA, discussions will centre on how ports across the sub-region can become more resilient, efficient, and economically impactful while also supporting the growth and welfare of host communities.
Managing Director of the NPA and current President of PMAWCA, Abubakar Dantsoho, is expected to host the meeting.
Dantsoho said the gathering would provide an important platform for member states to align regional maritime priorities and strengthen strategic cooperation across the port sector.
“The meeting affords us all, as chief executives and stakeholders, the platform to reiterate the pivotal role that ports play in shaping the future of humanity,” he said.
“With ports serving as gateways of prosperity and linking nations to the international community, their demonstrated leadership in advancing sustainable development goals cannot be overemphasised.”
The NPA added that the meeting will also examine issues surrounding port security, infrastructure expansion, maritime trade efficiency, and broader strategies for enhancing logistics performance throughout the West and Central African corridor.
Participants are expected to review ongoing committee activities, assess midterm reports, and explore new frameworks for stronger operational collaboration among ports within the region.
Nigeria’s hosting of the meeting further reinforces the country’s growing influence within regional maritime affairs following its role during the 43rd PMAWCA Annual Council and Managing Directors’ Roundtable held in 2023.
Industry stakeholders believe the outcome of the summit could shape future policies aimed at improving trade facilitation, reducing port bottlenecks, and boosting economic integration across West and Central Africa.
