NPA Pays Tribute To Former Chief Executive , Alhaji Bamanga Tukur
NPA Pays Tribute To Former Chief Executive , Alhaji Bamanga Tukur
_“He Laid the Foundation for Modern Port Administration in Nigeria” – MD Dantsoho_
By Success Okezie
The *Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA*, has joined the nation and the global maritime community in mourning the death of *Alhaji Bamanga Tukur*, a former Chief Executive of the Authority and one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen.
Tukur, who passed away on *Saturday, 12th September 2026, at the age of 90*, led the NPA as *General Manager and Chief Executive from 1975 to 1982* — a defining era that laid the groundwork for the modernization of Nigeria’s ports and their role in national economic growth.
In a condolence message signed by the *General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara*, the Managing Director of NPA, *Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho*, described the late Tukur as a visionary whose footprints remain visible in the nation’s maritime sector.
Dr. Dantsoho, who was in the delegation led by the *Executive Governor of Adamawa State* to receive the body of the late business mogul, said the NPA family is deeply saddened by the loss.
“On behalf of the entire Management and Staff of the Nigerian Ports Authority, I extend our profound condolences and heartfelt sympathies to his immediate family, to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to the good people of Adamawa State,” Dantsoho stated.
“Today, we mourn the passing of a pillar of trade facilitation, a leader of uncommon foresight, and an inspiration to generations of public servants and business leaders.”
During his 7 years at the helm of the NPA, Bamanga Tukur was credited with driving administrative reforms, improving operational efficiency, and positioning Nigerian ports as strategic gateways for both domestic and regional trade.
Colleagues from that era recall his emphasis on discipline, professionalism, and a customer-focused approach — principles that continue to guide port operations till today.
Tukur’s influence, however, extended far beyond the docks.
After leaving the NPA, he went on to become a towering figure in Nigeria’s business, political, and diplomatic landscape. He served in various national roles and built a reputation as an international businessman and statesman who championed Nigeria’s economic interests across Africa and the world.
The NPA noted that his life embodied service, integrity, and a steadfast belief in Nigeria’s potential as a trade and investment hub.
The Authority said it will honor his memory by upholding the values he stood for — accountability, innovation, and dedication to public service.
“We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul and ask Almighty Allah to grant his family, associates, and the people of Adamawa State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement added.
As flags fly at half-mast across NPA formations, tributes have continued to pour in from maritime stakeholders who describe Tukur as a mentor, a pathfinder, and a builder of institutions.
About The Author
