The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, on Monday inaugurated an 11-member Governing Board for the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to strengthen its governance structure and reposition it for optimal performance.
Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, Oyetola said the new board reflected President Bola Tinubu’s broader vision to reform institutions, enhance trade facilitation, and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
The board is chaired by Mr Adedayo Adeyeye, with members including Dr Mercy Ilori, Mr Amirudin Tukur Idris, Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel, and Sen. Lawan Jalo Zarami.
Other members are Olabanji Olayemi Olateju, Kelechi Igwe, Abubakar Dantsoho, Ibrahim Abba Umar, Olalekan Badmus, and Vivian Edet.
“In line with the NPA Act, this board is entrusted with key policy responsibilities, particularly on staffing and budget matters,” Oyetola said, referencing Sections 10 and 20 of the Act.
He noted that the duties were carried out through two strategic committees, the Staff and Establishment Committee and the Finance Committee.
He stressed, however, that the day-to-day operations of the NPA remained the sole responsibility of the Managing Director and the management team, as stipulated by law.
Oyetola cited the Public Procurement Act and Public Service Rules, which clearly defined the boundaries between board oversight and executive management.
“The board must provide policy direction without interfering in routine operations.
“Constructive engagement, mutual respect, and institutional harmony are essential for success,” he warned.
Oyetola urged members to approach their duties with discipline, professionalism, and a strong commitment to national interest, emphasising that their role was pivotal to building a globally competitive port system.
In his remarks, Board Chairman, Adeyeye thanked the minister for the opportunity to serve and pledged to lead a results-driven board.
He assured that the members, chosen for their experience and competence, would align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and ministerial directives to transform the NPA.
“We will work within the laid-down guidelines and policies.
“Our focus is to strengthen the effectiveness of the NPA and support Nigeria’s economic growth,” Adeyeye said.
He also promised to work harmoniously with the ministry, NPA management, and staff to achieve the board’s objectives, expressing optimism that their tenure would be marked by “great success.”
Source: By Diana Omueza / NAN
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