The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has come out to deny accusations of multi-billion naira fraud in some online media outlets.
The NPA recently described the claims as baseless and lacking credibility.
Speaking via a press statement issued by its management, the Nigerian Ports Authority clarified that its finances are subject to thorough oversight by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly; therefore, misapplication of funds is not possible.
According to the NPA, the dredging of the Warri Escravos Channel, vital to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, was done under emergency procurement procedures consistent with the Public Procurement Act of 2007, and the project had to be done to guarantee safe navigation amid the ongoing factors working against it.
It revealed that marine crafts like tugboats and pilot cutters were purchased to aid offshore operations connected to the domestic sale of crude oil in naira, which is in alignment with national energy security goals.
The NPA disclosed that staff appointments and contract terminations also happened within the framework of existing laws and internal policies, and its recent approval from the Federal Executive Council to commence the Port Modernisation Programme, an initiative aimed at enhancing port infrastructure, equipment, is further proof that its work is appreciated.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) then urged media organizations to always do their own proper findings before publishing untrue reports, stressing that it remains committed to transparency and stakeholder engagement.
“The Abubakar Dantsoho-led management remains dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness of Nigerian ports through infrastructure renewal and full implementation of the Port Community System as part of the National Single Window initiative,” it read.
