The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has lauded the resilience, dedication, and growing impact of women in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
This was coming as the world marked International Women’s Day.
The NPA boss said women working within the sector have continued to distinguish themselves in several fields, including firefighting, security, piloting, engineering, hydrography, and administrative support services such as aids to navigation areas traditionally dominated by men.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Dantsoho emphasised the Authority’s deliberate commitment to gender equality and inclusion within the maritime sector.
He disclosed that the Authority had taken intentional steps to empower women through strategic appointments, particularly within his immediate team of aides and Technical Assistants.
According to him, women currently occupy about 60% of those positions, while men make up the remaining 40%, a development he described as a conscious effort to strengthen female representation in leadership and decision-making roles.
He noted that the initiative reflects the Authority’s broader commitment to promoting gender balance and creating opportunities for women to thrive and succeed within the maritime industry.
The NPA boss further commended women working within the Authority and across the maritime value chain for their professionalism, resilience, and continuous contributions to the growth and efficiency of Nigeria’s port system.
He reiterated that the achievements of women in the sector demonstrated their capacity to excel in demanding roles and help shape a more inclusive and progressive maritime industry in the country.
“The Nigerian Ports Authority proudly celebrates the resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions of women in the maritime sector—including firefighting, security, piloting, engineering, hydrography, administrative and maritime-support services such as aids to navigation. These remarkable women are excelling even in roles that traditionally demand male-kind of strength,” the NPA boss enthused.
