KEY POINTS
- The NPA shot their mouths off, preserving that federal oversight had been on all long.
- Dredging and vessel procurement was conducted in accordance with the ordinance procedure of emergency as stipulated by law.
- The NPA attributes its 2024 revenue growth to fluctuation of exchange rates and reasserts its commitment to modernize the port system.
Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has tried to dismiss multi-billion naira fraud allegations made by some online media saying the complaints are unwarranted, unfounded, and lack any substantial evidence.
Allegations outrightly false
The NPA management said in a statement that its financial activities are under close monitoring by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the
The agency denied allegations regarding dredging on Warri Escravos Channel, saying the operation got done according to emergency procurement regulations under the Public Procurement Act of 2007. The dredging was important in ensuring a reduction of the severe siltation that threatened safety of prolonged routes for navigation especially essential for oil and gas operations in Niger Delta.
Procurement and revenue increase clarified
The NPA noted that the acquisition of vessels such as tugboats and pilot cutters was crucial for offshore scenarios that linked with crude oil deals in naira while in line with the government’s policy to enhance national energy security.
The management and any of its officials denied all accusations of withholding documents or mismanagement of finances such as alleged expenses from the London office, explaining that claims were “completely false” and did not comply with the civil service policies or international accounting standards.
As a reaction to claims about an increase in 2024 revenue, the NPA commented on the reason being the favorable movement of exchange rates, while clarifying that port charges are in foreign currencies, common in international port dealings.
Staff morale, modernization, and accountability as opposed to Naira fraud allegations
In order to reverse the reports of low morale among the staff, the NPA claimed morale was high because of a string of promotions and correction of the old personnel gridlocks. The agency had stated that these measures have received the approval of labor unions.
Furthermore, the NPA adeptly capitalised on this chance to highlight its active Port Modernization Programme, which passed through the Federal Executive Council’s approval not too long ago. The goals of the initiative comprise improvement of the infrastructure, automated logistics, increased operational efficiency within the National Single Window program.
NPA guarantees openness as regards naira fraud allegations
Through the NPA, the organization called on journalists to verify any claims before publishing and stressed the commitment to openness and stakeholders engagement.
“The management under Abubakar Dantsoho still focuses on modernization of Nigerian ports, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure renewal, and the full implementation of the Port Community System,” it added in the statement.
