By Joy Enamuna

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, has reiterated the agency’s commitment to upholding gender equality and empowering women and girls both within and outside the organization.

He emphasized that the NPA remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that allows women to maximize their potential.

Speaking during the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration themed “Accelerate Action for Gender Equality,” Dr. Dantsoho highlighted the NPA’s continued participation in IWD observances while implementing policies that promote women’s rights and empowerment in Nigeria.

According to him, the agency has been actively advocating for equal opportunities and ensuring that women face no barriers to career growth within the organization.

“For us at the Nigerian Ports Authority, IWD is not just a symbolic event. It serves as a moment of reflection on our achievements in advancing gender equality and a call to action for further progress,” he stated.

He further outlined some of the significant steps the NPA has taken in fostering gender inclusion, which include:
• Extending maternity leave for women to six months.
• Ensuring that pregnancy out of wedlock does not hinder a woman’s entitlements.
• Allowing nursing mothers to resume work an hour later and close an hour earlier than official working hours.
• Appointing women to key leadership positions within the organization.

Dr. Dantsoho pointed out that the NPA currently has a female Executive Director for Finance and Administration, Mrs. Vivian C. Richard-Edet, and in recent years, at least 12 women have served as General Managers and Port Managers.

Beyond leadership roles, he noted that women are actively involved in various critical operations, including piloting, fire service, security, medical services, and engineering within the NPA.

Despite these strides, the MD acknowledged that challenges still exist, as many women and girls continue to face discrimination, inequality, and abuse. He assured that the NPA would remain steadfast in advocating for gender parity and creating opportunities for women to thrive.

“I congratulate all women in the NPA on this year’s IWD celebration and reaffirm our commitment to positioning the Authority as a leading example in providing opportunities for women and girls in the maritime sector. Together, we will accelerate action for gender equality,” he added.

International Women’s Day is globally recognized as a time to celebrate women’s achievements, reflect on the progress made toward gender equality, and advocate for stronger policies and actions to eliminate gender-based discrimination and violence.

Since its inception in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland, March 8—and the entire month—has been observed as a period to honor women’s contributions across various sectors worldwide.

(Prompt news)