Lagos: The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has firmly rejected allegations of corruption, asserting that the misapplication of budgetary provisions is unfeasible under its rigorous regulatory framework. NPA's General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, addressed these claims in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Onyemekara emphasized that the Authority's budget and expenditures are meticulously overseen by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office, and the National Assembly. He explained that the dredging activities at the Warri Escravos Channel were essential due to deteriorating conditions that posed risks to maritime navigation and national oil and gas operations.
The dredging contract adhered to the emergency procurement procedure outlined in the Procurement Act 2007, countering accusations made in some online reports. Onyemekara dismissed these online allegations of multi-billion-naira corruption within the Authority as false and without basis.
He affirmed that the NPA operates with transparency, with its financial activities fully supervised by federal bodies, making the misapplication of funds implausible. Onyemekara stated that the marine craft procurement process was lawfully executed to address urgent national energy security needs, supporting offshore operations and domestic crude oil sales.
He refuted claims of withholding documents for over a year, citing civil service rules regarding processing timelines. Allegations concerning transactions at NPA's London Office were also rejected, with Onyemekara confirming that no such activities occurred.
Onyemekara attributed the projected increase in 2024 revenues to foreign exchange gains, as port charges are internationally benchmarked in foreign currency. He clarified that revocations of third-party contracts were conducted within legal frameworks while honoring existing agreements.
He explained that staff promotions, including new General Manager appointments, addressed age-related stagnation and followed proper internal procedures. Onyemekara noted that staff morale is high, supported by in-house union commendations for resolving long-standing promotion issues and conducting 2024 promotion exams.
To enhance competitiveness and cargo throughput, the Authority secured Federal Executive Council approval for the Port Modernisation Programme. Onyemekara urged media outlets to verify reports directly with the Authority, which remains open to constructive dialogue.
He asserted that the Abubakar Dantsoho-led management reaffirmed its commitment to modernizing Nigerian ports through infrastructure and equipment upgrades. Onyemekara also highlighted that the Port Community System is nearing completion, supporting the rollout of the Federal Government's National Single Window Project.