Esther Oritse
Lagos — The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has firmly denied allegations of multi-billion-naira fraud circulating in some online media outlets, describing the claims as baseless and lacking credibility.
In a statement issued by the agency’s management, the NPA emphasized that its finances are subject to strict oversight by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly. This, it noted, renders any misapplication of funds virtually impossible.
Addressing specific claims, the NPA clarified that the dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel—critical to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector—was carried out under emergency procurement procedures consistent with the Public Procurement Act of 2007. The project, it added, was necessary to address the heavy siltation threatening safe navigation.
On the procurement of marine crafts such as tugboats and pilot cutters, the Authority explained that these were acquired to support offshore operations linked to the domestic sale of crude oil in naira, aligning with national energy security goals.
The agency also dismissed claims that documents had been withheld for over a year, citing civil service guidelines that prevent such delays. It labeled as “outrightly false” the allegations related to expenditures by its London office, stating no such transactions ever occurred.
Regarding the reported increase in 2024 revenue, the NPA attributed the growth to favorable exchange rate fluctuations, noting that port charges are denominated in foreign currency as is standard practice globally.
Responding to accusations of staff discontent, the management said morale was high, following recent promotions and the resolution of long-standing personnel stagnation. It added that its efforts have been praised by in-house labor unions.
The NPA also highlighted that staff appointments and contract terminations were carried out within the framework of existing laws and its internal policies.
In a broader outlook, the Authority pointed to its recent approval from the Federal Executive Council to commence the Port Modernization Programme—an initiative aimed at enhancing port infrastructure, equipment, and process automation.
The NPA urged media organizations to seek clarification before publishing reports and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement.
“The Abubakar Dantsoho-led management remains dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness of Nigerian ports,” the statement concluded, “through infrastructure renewal and full implementation of the Port Community System as part of the National Single Window initiative.”
