NPA backs Abuja MoU on regional maritime cooperation

By Godwin Oritse Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has expressed support for the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (Abuja MoU) Capacity Building Programme as a major step towards strengthening maritime governance and enhancing Port State Control across West and Central Africa. Speaking at the programme’s launch in Abuja, Dantsoho reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to initiatives that promote maritime safety, security and regulatory compliance in the region. He said: “The Capacity Building Programme is designed to equip maritime administrations with the knowledge, skills and technical capacity required to implement Port State Control measures effectively, ensure greater compliance with international maritime conventions and improve the overall performance of member states within the Abuja MoU region.” Dantsoho commended the Chairman of the Abuja MoU, Hon. Ebrima Sillah, Minister of Transport, Works and Infrastructure of The Gambia, for his leadership in advancing regional maritime cooperation. He also praised the Vice-Chairman of the Abuja MoU and Nigeria’s Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, as well as the Secretariat led by Captain Sunday Umoren. According to him, “Their dedication and exemplary leadership have continued to drive the objectives of the Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control for the West and Central African Region.” Expressing confidence in the initiative, Dantsoho said: “The strengthened collaboration among member states will enhance the effectiveness of Port State Control inspections, improve maritime safety standards and contribute significantly to the sustainable development of the maritime sector across the Abuja MoU region.” The programme is expected to strengthen institutional capacity, improve compliance with international maritime standards and deepen regional cooperation among member states responsible for Port State Control.