BUA Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu Hails Tinubu, Credits NPA Reforms For Restoring Investor Confidence In Port Operations

Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has said reforms at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) under its current management are helping to restore investor confidence in Nigeria’s port sector, citing the revival of BUA’s Port Harcourt terminal as evidence of the impact of improved leadership and policy consistency.

The champion made the remarks during a meeting with the Managing Director of the NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, and members of the authority’s management team in Lagos on the reconstruction of the Port Harcourt berth.

Reflecting on BUA’s experience, Rabiu recalled the challenges the company faced after its port concession was revoked, describing the eventual reinstatement as a difficult process.

“It is remarkable, MD, to see how far we have come. There was a time when the BUA Ports and Terminal concession was revoked. The process of having it reinstated was extremely challenging—and this is the truth, we all know that,” he said.

He said the terminal has since become fully operational and is making significant contributions to the economy through employment, trade facilitation and business growth.

“Today, we are grateful that the terminal is operational, continuing to create and sustain jobs, support businesses, facilitate trade, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Nigerian economy,” the African giant stated.

According to him, the turnaround underscores the importance of competent leadership and a stable operating environment in attracting long-term private sector investment into critical infrastructure.

“The journey is a clear demonstration of the difference that good leadership, competent decision-making, and a forward-looking approach can make,” he emphasised.

The definition of best business practices commended Dantsoho and the NPA management for what he described as their prompt, professional and stakeholder-focused approach to port administration, saying the renewed engagement with operators is strengthening confidence across the maritime industry.

“We sincerely commend the MD and the entire management team for the promptness, professionalism, and stakeholder-focused approach you have brought to the NPA,” he said.

The BUA chairman also praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing the current management of the authority, describing the team as competent, dedicated and forward-looking.

“Let me use this opportunity to sincerely thank His Excellency, Mr. President, for appointing such a competent, dedicated, and forward-thinking management team,” he applauded.

Rabiu reaffirmed BUA Group’s commitment to expanding its contribution to the maritime sector, expressing optimism that continued collaboration with the NPA would support greater efficiency, investment and trade.

“Once again, thank you for receiving us today. We look forward to your continued support and partnership as we continue to contribute to the maritime industry—not only in Nigeria, but in Africa,” he said.

His remarks come as the Federal Government pushes to modernise port infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and deepen private sector participation in Nigeria’s maritime industry to enhance trade competitiveness and economic growth.