Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola is set to declare open the Port Management Association of West and Central Africa (PMAWCA) Board of Directors meeting in Lagos. The three‑day summit, scheduled for 18–20 May 2026 under the host of the Nigerian Ports Authority, will gather senior port managers and maritime leaders from across West and Central Africa to discuss the evolution of ports and regional maritime growth.
Held under the theme “Ports of the Future: Combining Logistical Resilience with Inclusive Community Development,” the discussions will centre on upgrading port infrastructure, improving supply‑chain resilience, strengthening regional cooperation, and ensuring that port expansion delivers real socio‑economic gains for surrounding communities. Managing Director of NPA and current PMAWCA President Abubakar Dantsoho described the meeting as a pivotal moment for redefining the role of ports in driving trade, integration, and sustainable development in the sub‑region.
Dantsoho highlighted that ports serve as vital gateways connecting African nations to global markets while acting as hubs for industrialisation, employment, and value addition. He stressed that the efficiency and sustainability of ports are closely linked to the broader health of the global economy, especially in West and Central Africa. The NPA chief assured participants of a focused and collaborative setting where ideas on port security, trade facilitation, infrastructure modernisation, and climate‑adaptable operations could be shaped into concrete policy and operational measures.
The summit will also feature a review of PMAWCA midterm committee activities and wider conversations on enhancing cooperation among member ports. By hosting the PMAWCA Board meeting, Nigeria further consolidates its position as a leading voice in regional maritime affairs, building on the successful hosting of the 43rd PMAWCA Annual Council and Managing Directors’ Roundtable in 2023.