The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has dismissed recent online reports alleging multi-billion-naira corruption within its ranks, describing the claims as baseless and unsubstantiated.
In a statement signed by Ikechukwu Onyemekara, general manager of corporate and strategic communications, the NPA assured Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to accountability and transparency in its operations.
“The attention of the Nigerian Ports Authority has been drawn to spurious allegations of multi-billion-naira corruption purportedly going on in the Authority in some online publications. We state without equivocation that these allegations are false and without any credibility,” the statement read.
The NPA outlined a series of clarifications addressing the allegations.
Mr Onyemekara emphasised that the NPA budget and expenditures are rigorously supervised by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly, making the alleged misappropriation of funds implausible.
The NPA defended the emergency dredging works at the Warri Escravos Channel, stating that all processes adhered strictly to the Procurement Act of 2007, necessitated by the need to prevent vessel grounding and protect vital oil and gas operations.
It added that the purchase of tugboats and pilot cutters was undertaken in compliance with procurement laws, driven by the need to bolster offshore operations for domestic crude oil sales in Naira.
The NPA dismissed claims of withholding documents, highlighting that civil service guidelines ensure the timely processing of official records.
It categorically denied allegations of financial impropriety related to its London office, calling them outright fabrications.
“The promotion of employees, as well as the appointment of Assistant General Managers and General Managers were undertaken to address the age stagnation of personnel in the Authority. Management however followed due process as prescribed in the Authority’s duly approved conditions of service.” The statement said.
The increase in 2024 revenue was attributed to exchange rate gains, consistent with global maritime practices, as the NPA’s revenues are denominated in foreign currency.
Addressing claims of low staff morale, the NPA pointed to the resolution of employee stagnation and the conduct of promotion examinations in 2024, which earned praise from labour unions.
“The allegation of ‘staff morale being at rock bottom’ falls flat in the face of reality. The current Management has to its credit, the clearing of all outstanding issues of employee stagnation and the conduct of promotion examinations in 2024. The management has received commendation from the two in-house labour unions for these reasons. So, staff morale is at its peak currently,” the statement said.
It added that revocation or amendment of third-party contracts was carried out in line with legal and contractual provisions.
The NPA highlighted its strides toward port modernisation, including securing Federal Executive Council approval for infrastructure renewal and process automation through the Port Community System.
Onyemekara urged media organisations to seek clarifications before publishing reports, reiterating the NPA’s openness to constructive engagement. “The management of the Authority wishes to advise all media organisations to seek clarification of their reports from the Authority, whose doors are open to constructive engagements,” he stated.
The statement concluded with an assurance from the Abubakar Dantsoho-led management of its commitment to enhancing port competitiveness and supporting national economic growth.
The NPA called on Nigerians to support its efforts to modernise and improve the country’s port systems as it continues implementing the Federal Government’s National Single Window project.
