KEY POINTS
- Dantsoho advocates for technology and collaboration to improve trade between African coastal and landlocked nations.
- Integrated transport infrastructure, like the Abidjan-Lagos highway, is key to regional economic integration.
- Harmonized policies and investments are necessary to streamline cargo movement and improve port performance.
Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), has urged African coastal nations to adopt a technology-driven, collaborative approach to improve transit cargo operations.
Speaking at the 44th Annual Council and 19th Roundtable of the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa in Conakry, Guinea, Dantsoho emphasized the urgent need for enhanced regional trade facilitation, particularly for landlocked countries reliant on coastal infrastructure.
“We must prioritize shared technological advancements and connectivity among littoral states to simplify cargo movement and unlock trade opportunities for landlocked nations,” Dantsoho stated.
Strategic infrastructure as a catalyst
Dantsoho underscored the transformative potential of investing in integrated transport networks. He called for the rapid development of critical infrastructure projects, such as the Niger, Lagos, Tema, and Abidjan trade corridors, which are pivotal to strengthening trade flows across the continent. The Abidjan-to-Lagos highway, a flagship initiative by ECOWAS, was highlighted as a cornerstone of West Africa’s economic integration.
“Africa’s 16 coastal nations bear a moral and economic responsibility to facilitate equitable trade access for the continent’s 16 landlocked countries,” he added, stressing that infrastructure improvements would enhance regional competitiveness and foster inclusive economic growth.
Policy harmonization and regional cooperation
As reported by Punch, the NPA chief advocated for harmonized regulatory framework to streamline cargo movement and reduce logistical complexities. “Aligned policies and collaborative investments in ports and transportation networks are essential to achieving cost efficiency and trade accessibility,” he noted.
Dantsoho also called for multilateral agreements to address transshipment cargo challenges, environmental sustainability, and security concerns. Such agreements, he argued, would boost port performance and enable African nations to negotiate better terms with international shipping lines.
Bridging maritime and inland gaps
Recognizing the interdependence between ports and inland connectivity, Dantsoho emphasized the importance of aligning maritime operations with hinterland logistics. He proposed a balanced strategy combining infrastructure upgrades, digital innovation, and diplomatic coordination to overcome logistical bottlenecks.
“Strong links between maritime shipping and inland transport are key to achieving seamless trade flows. Digital transformation and optimized hinterland networks must be at the core of Africa’s trade agenda,” he asserted.
Regional leaders echo vision for connectivity
Mamadou Biro Diallo, Managing Director of the Port Autonome de Conakry, endorsed Dantsoho’s vision, highlighting the critical role of integrated infrastructure in driving port efficiency. “Ports thrive on the strength of interconnected rail, road, and waterway systems,” Diallo remarked, underscoring the need for cohesive regional efforts.
As Africa positions itself as a global trade hub, leaders like Dantsoho and Diallo continue to champion unified solutions. The call for greater technological integration, infrastructure development, and policy alignment marks a pivotal step toward a more interconnected and competitive African trade landscape.
