The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola,has inaugurated the newly reconstituted Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), charged members to uphold professionalism, discipline, and reform-driven leadership in steering the maritime sector towards national economic transformation.
The inauguration, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja, is part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to reposition the maritime industry as a key pillar of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
In his remarks, the Minister emphasised that the inauguration represents a significant milestone in the ongoing institutional reforms championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He noted that the NPA Board plays a crucial role in policy oversight, especially on staffing and budgetary matters, through its statutory committees.
Oyetola, however, underscored the need for a clear distinction between governance and management roles, stressing that the day-to-day administration of the Authority rests solely with the Managing Director and the executive management team.
“The Board is expected to provide policy guidance and oversight in line with government directives, but must not interfere with the routine operations of the Authority. This is clearly provided for in Section 10(3) of the NPA Act and further reinforced by the Public Procurement Act, 2007,” he stated.
He further called for mutual respect, collaboration, and institutional harmony between the Board and the management of the NPA, urging both sides to work constructively to achieve the sector’s goals.
“To the newly inaugurated Board Members, I congratulate you. I urge you to approach this assignment with discipline, focus, and a firm commitment to the national interest. Your role is pivotal in developing a competitive, efficient port system that meets global standards,” Oyetola added.
Responding on behalf of the Board, Chairman Senator Adedayo Adeyeye expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in them and commended Minister Oyetola for his leadership and support throughout the nomination and inauguration process.
Senator Adeyeye praised the Board’s composition, highlighting the collective competence of its members and expressing commitment to working in synergy with the NPA management and the Ministry to ensure an impactful tenure.
“We recognise the Honourable Minister as the head of this family, and we pledge to operate under his guidance with unity, purpose, and respect for institutional roles,” he affirmed.
The newly inaugurated NPA Board comprised:
- Senator Adedayo Adeyeye – Chairman
- Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho – Managing Director
- Hon. Olabanji Olawale Olateju – Member
- Hon. Amirudin Tukur Idris – Member
- Barr. Kelechi Igwe – Member
- Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel – Member
- Dr. Mercy Ilori – Member, representing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy
- Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar – Executive Director, Engineering and Technical Services
- Engr. Olalekan Badmus – Executive Director, Marine and Operations
- Ms. Vivian C. Richard Edet – Executive Director, Finance and Administration
