The Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) says it is investing in human capital development to build a future-ready maritime workforce capable of driving safer, smarter, greener and more efficient port operations.
The Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho made this known at the 2026 Maritime Training Summit organised by the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON), in Lagos on Friday.
Speaking on the theme, “The Power of Innovation in a Future-Ready Maritime Training Agenda”, Dantsoho said the maritime industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation, robotics and data driven system.
The MD, who was represented by the Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex, Mr. Adebowale Lawal noted that at the NPA, innovation is no longer merely a concept, but has become a central part of how they prepare for the future.
According to him, the NPA has continued to embrace technology to improve efficiency, safety and service delivery.
He stated that initiatives such as the Electronic Call-up System (ETO); Electronic Access Control; Digital Revenue Systems, Vessel Management Platforms and the ongoing development of the Port Community System are part of the NPA’s effort to create an integrated and digitally driven Port environment.
Dantsoho further revealed that the Authority is aligning its processes with the National Single Window, which he said would facilitate a greater integration and electronic exchange of information among stakeholders.
”These Initiatives demonstrate that the future of our ports will depend increasingly on people who understand and can effectively deploy technology”.
He stressed that technology cannot deliver the desired transformation without the right people, noting that capacity development must remain at the heart of innovation.
He disclosed that the Authority is invested in human capital development through its training infrastructure, including the Port Training Institute and simulation facilities, adding that innovation is not only about machines and technology but about people, ideas and the courage to do things.
”If we invest in the right skills today, we will build a maritime workforce capable of driving safer, smarter, greener and more efficient ports and maritime operations tomorrow”.
The NPA boss urged stakeholders to produce professionals who are not only technically competent, but also innovative, adaptable, digitally literate, with the capacity to solve future problems in the industry.
He emphasised that training programmes must focus on the emerging areas such as Smart Ports, Autonomous and Connected Ships, Cyber security, Green shipping and Data-driven decision making.
The MD commended the organisers for the time-sensitive topic, describing the summit as an opportunity for the government, training institutions and other stakeholders to rethink how Nigeria maritime sector can develop the human capital needed for global competition.
