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By Steve Agbota, [email protected] 08033302331
Last Friday, President Bola Tinubu appointed Abubakar Dantosho as the new Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), marking the end of Mohammed Bello-Koko’s four-year tenure. This significant change was announced by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, who highlighted Dantosho’s extensive experience within the NPA, having served in various capacities such as Assistant General Manager, Technical Assistant to the Managing Director, Port Manager of Onne Port, and Principal Manager of Tariff & Billing.
Stakeholders have welcomed Dantosho’s appointment, recognizing his expertise and deep understanding of the maritime industry. They have high expectations, hoping he will surpass the performance of his predecessors, particularly those appointed for political reasons rather than industry experience.
Urgent challenges facing Nigerian ports
The Nigerian ports are beset with numerous challenges that require immediate and effective intervention. The previous administration made efforts but achieved limited success in addressing these issues. The ports are notorious for poor infrastructure, including deteriorating roads, rail systems, quays, buildings, equipment, and yards. Additionally, insecurity, pilferage, and delays in cargo clearance are rampant.
For instance, the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, which are over 100 years old, suffer from severe infrastructural decay. Many of the major infrastructures, such as the quays at Tin Can Island, have collapsed. It has been reported that much of the infrastructure at these two major ports in Lagos is over 45 years old and has yet to be repaired. An assessment by the NPA under the previous MD, Bello-Koko, revealed that Nigeria would need approximately $800 million to $1.1 billion to rehabilitate these ports. Bello-Koko had initiated discussions with banks to secure the necessary funding, but progress stalled with his removal. This leaves a significant task for the new MD, who must finalize these deals and commence rehabilitation efforts.
Corruption and operational inefficiencies
In addition to infrastructural issues, the Nigerian ports, particularly in Apapa, Lagos, are plagued by truck congestion, indiscriminate extortion, and other corrupt practices. In 2022, former NPA MD Mohammed Bello-Koko pledged to eliminate systemic corruption at the ports. However, a 2023 report indicated that these problems persist, with violent toll collectors frequently harassing and attacking business owners, forcibly collecting illegal taxes and disrupting importation and exportation activities.
Stakeholders’ expectations
Stakeholders are optimistic that Dantosho will address these longstanding issues. Lucky Amiwero, President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), highlighted that unlike his predecessors, Dantosho is an insider with extensive NPA experience. Amiwero emphasized the need for legal reforms to properly position the NPA within the port sector, ensuring effective operations and oversight.
Dr. Farinto Kayode, former acting National President of the Association of National Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), expressed confidence in Dantosho’s ability to perform exceptionally well, given his familiarity with the NPA and the maritime industry. Kayode expects Dantosho to prioritize tackling corruption, particularly the pervasive bribery affecting truck access to the ports.
Additionally, the Chief Executive Officer of the Center for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr. Muda Yusuf, underscored the importance of improving the ease of doing business at the ports. He pointed out that as the landlord of the ports, the NPA must invest significantly in infrastructure to enhance efficiency and attract investment.
Conclusion
Abubakar Dantosho’s appointment as the new MD of the Nigerian Ports Authority comes with high expectations and significant challenges. His extensive experience within the NPA positions him well to tackle the urgent issues of infrastructural decay, corruption, and operational inefficiencies that have long plagued Nigerian ports. The maritime industry and stakeholders are hopeful that under his leadership, the NPA will undergo much-needed reforms and improvements, leading to a more efficient and effective port system that can drive economic growth and development.
