The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has reiterated the Authority’s unwavering commitment to promoting women’s rights and equality.
Speaking at the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, themed “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” Dantsoho affirmed that the NPA remains dedicated to creating opportunities for women and girls within and beyond the organization, empowering them to reach their full potential.
He emphasized that the NPA does not view IWD as merely a ceremonial occasion but as an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and commit to doing even more.
According to him, the NPA has been an active advocate for women’s rights and empowerment since its inception, fostering a work environment where women are not limited by gender stereotypes or societal expectations.
Highlighting the Authority’s efforts, Dantsoho mentioned several initiatives aimed at supporting women employees.
These include extending maternity leave to six months, ensuring that pregnancy out of wedlock does not hinder a woman’s career progression, and granting nursing mothers the privilege of starting work an hour later and closing an hour earlier than the official schedule.
Additionally, the NPA has placed women in significant leadership roles, including Mrs. Vivian C. Richard-Edet, who currently serves as the Executive Director of Finance and Administration.
Over recent years, at least 12 women have held positions as General Managers and Port Managers.
Beyond leadership roles, women are integrated into various operational units within the NPA, working as pilots, fire service personnel, security officers, medical staff, and engineers.
Dantsoho stressed that the NPA does not impose limitations on women’s capabilities or the opportunities available to them, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to gender equality in practical and meaningful ways.
Despite these accomplishments, he acknowledged that the journey toward gender equality is far from complete.
He noted that women and girls continue to face discrimination, inequality, and abuse due to their gender.
The NPA, he promised, will persist in its efforts to create a more equitable environment, both within the Authority and in the broader community.
Dantsoho congratulated all women in the NPA on the occasion of IWD and pledged continued support and collaboration to make the Authority a leader in fostering opportunities for women in the maritime industry.
He reaffirmed the NPA’s resolve to accelerate progress toward gender equality.
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, has grown into a global movement since its inception in 1911.
Initially observed in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, it has since become a month-long commemoration of women’s achievements and a rallying call for an end to gender-based violence and discrimination.
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