The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has categorically dismissed recent allegations of multi-billion-naira corruption as false, misleading and lacking any factual basis.
Describing the claims circulated in some online platforms as “spurious,” the Authority reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to transparency, due process, and public accountability.
In a statement, the NPA said its financial operations are conducted under strict regulatory oversight, leaving no room for misapplication of funds.
“The budget and expenditure of the NPA are subject to rigorous scrutiny by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and oversight by the National Assembly. “This makes any suggestion of financial impropriety impossible”, the Authority stated.
Addressing the specific issues raised, NPA clarified that the emergency dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel, critical to the nation’s oil and gas logistics, was executed in full compliance with the Procurement Act, 2007. The intervention, it said, was essential to mitigate rising siltation, prevent shipping disruptions, and avert significant economic losses.
In the same vein, the procurement of marine equipment such as tugboats and pilot cutters was necessitated by the strategic requirement to support offshore operations linked to the domestic sale of crude oil in naira. The Authority stressed that this was done in accordance with due process and national interest.
The report’s claim that documents were withheld for over a year was dismissed as unfounded. “Such a delay is incompatible with the timelines stipulated in the civil service guidelines,” the statement explained.
Also rejected were allegations regarding activities at the NPA’s London office. “The transactions speculated in the reports never occurred,” the Authority said.
Explaining the marked increase in its 2024 revenue figures, the NPA pointed to foreign exchange gains, noting that its earnings are denominated in international currencies in line with global maritime practice.
The statement further addressed internal human resource matters, stating that staff promotions and recent appointments were carried out transparently to resolve long-standing stagnation issues. “Management followed due process as prescribed in the Authority’s Conditions of Service,” it affirmed.
Contrary to claims of low staff morale, the NPA stated that it has in fact received commendations from both in-house labour unions for recent reforms. “The successful conduct of promotion exams in 2024 and resolution of legacy issues have significantly improved employee confidence and engagement,” the statement noted.
Regarding third-party contracts, the Authority confirmed that all revocations or alterations were done within the confines of the law and in line with binding agreements.
Significantly, the NPA revealed that it has secured Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval for the launch of the Port Modernisation Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at improving infrastructure, vessel traffic, and cargo throughput across Nigerian ports.
Reiterating its openness to dialogue, the NPA urged media organisations to verify facts before publication. “Our doors remain open for constructive engagement and clarification where needed,” the Authority said.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Marine & Operations, Abubakar Dantsoho, and Managing Director Mohammed Bello-Koko, the NPA says it remains focused on deepening port competitiveness through ongoing infrastructure renewal and automation. The rollout of the Port Community System (PCS)—a key step toward implementing the Federal Government’s National Single Window (NSW) platform—is already at an advanced stage.
“We remain resolute in our mission to modernise Nigerian ports, strengthen maritime governance, and deliver value to all stakeholders in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement noted.
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