Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has been elected as Vice-President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH). The election was endorsed by port professionals from 64 countries during the ongoing World Ports Conference in Kobe, Japan.
This development follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy. Dantsoho’s election is seen as a significant recognition of Nigeria’s expanding role within the global maritime community.
The IAPH is a non-governmental organization based in Tokyo, Japan. It was established in November 1955 in Los Angeles by approximately 100 port leaders and has since grown into a global alliance. As of December 6, 2024, the association represents about 190 ports and 167 port-related businesses across 89 countries.
The member ports of the IAPH are responsible for handling more than 60% of the world’s seaborne trade and over 60% of global container traffic. The organization’s objective is to be the principal global trade association for port authorities and operators. It advocates for their interests with regulatory bodies including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the World Customs Organization (WCO), and the International Standards Organization (ISO).
Furthermore, the IAPH holds consultative status and represents port interests at several United Nations agencies, such as the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and the UN Global Compact.
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