NPA Refutes Corruption Allegations, Cites NASS Oversight, FEC Approvals
Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has firmly rejected recent allegations of multi-billion-naira corruption, asserting that its financial operations remain transparent and subject to multiple layers of government oversight.
In a statement signed by the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communication, Mr Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the agency described the claims as “unfounded,” stating that all budgetary activities are strictly supervised by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly.
“The dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel and procurement of marine crafts were executed under the emergency procurement provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007,” the statement clarified. “These measures were critical to supporting offshore crude oil transactions and preventing maritime disruptions.”
The NPA also dismissed claims of delayed documentation and financial irregularities at its London office, explaining that procedures comply with extant civil service timelines and international best practices. It attributed its 2024 revenue surge to foreign exchange gains, as port transactions are typically denominated in foreign currency.
On human resource issues, the NPA said staff promotions and new management appointments were carried out to address long-standing stagnation and were implemented according to approved service conditions. It refuted claims of poor morale, noting that two labour unions had commended recent improvements.
The agency reiterated that all third-party contract decisions complied with legal obligations and existing agreements. It also pointed to its recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval for the Port Modernisation Programme as part of broader efforts to enhance competitiveness and drive cargo throughput.
NPA urged media organisations to verify their claims and reaffirmed its openness to engagement. The agency pledged continued commitment to port reforms, infrastructure renewal, and the rollout of the Port Community System in preparation for the National Single Window implementation.
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