NPA Dismisses Corruption Allegations, Says Accusers Peddling Falsehoods
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has dismissed recent online reports alleging multi-billion-naira corruption within the agency, describing the claims as baseless, misleading, and a calculated attempt to undermine ongoing reforms under the leadership of Abubakar Dantsoho.
In a detailed rebuttal issued by the General Manager of Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the NPA debunked claims of budget misapplication, contract irregularities, and poor staff welfare, asserting that all procurement and promotion processes followed due process and statutory guidelines.
The Authority clarified that contracts such as the dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel and the procurement of marine crafts were executed in accordance with the Procurement Act, 2007, and were driven by urgent national priorities including crude oil sales to domestic refiners.
On staff morale, the statement noted that all outstanding promotion and stagnation issues have been resolved, with commendations received from in-house labour unions. “Staff morale is at its peak currently,” the NPA declared.
Addressing financial issues, the agency attributed the rise in 2024 revenue to exchange rate gains, noting that most of its earnings are denominated in foreign currency, in line with global best practices.
The NPA also emphasized the transparency of its operations, highlighting oversight from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office, and the National Assembly.
Reaffirming its commitment to modernization, the NPA disclosed that it had secured Federal Executive Council approval for a transformative Port Modernization Programme, aimed at boosting Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness through infrastructure renewal and automation.
The Authority urged media organizations to seek clarification before publishing sensitive reports, stating its doors remain open to constructive engagement.
“We remain focused on delivering a world-class port system and urge Nigerians to support this national effort,” Onyemekara said.
