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By Daniel Adaji
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Monday, inaugurated the new Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), calling on members to uphold transparency, professionalism, and discipline in discharging their duties.
Oyetola described the ceremony as “a critical step in our collective efforts to strengthen the governance structures of our maritime institutions and position the sector for greater national impact.”
Speaking during the inauguration in Abuja, the minister emphasised that the board’s role is primarily policy-based, as provided under the NPA Act, and must steer clear of interfering with the day-to-day management of the Authority.
“Clear boundaries between governance and management must be maintained for operational integrity and efficiency,” he stated.
He cited relevant provisions of the NPA Act and the Public Service Rules, stressing that the Managing Director and the management team retain full responsibility for operational execution.
He said the board must work within the confines of policy direction and supervision in line with federal regulations.
“The board is to provide policy direction and supervision in line with government directives but must not interfere with routine management or operational execution,” Oyetola said.
The minister admonished the NPA management and the new board to foster cooperation, mutual respect, and professionalism.
“Institutional harmony is vital, and this can only be achieved through cooperation, transparency, and unwavering dedication to national service,” he noted.
Congratulating the new board members, the minister described their appointment as a call to national duty, urging them to commit to building a globally competitive and efficient port system.
“Your role is pivotal to the development of a competitive and efficient port system one that meets global standards and contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation,” he said.
“On behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I hereby formally inaugurate the Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority. May your tenure be marked by innovation, accountability, and impactful governance,” Oyetola said.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olufemi Oloruntola, described the inauguration as “an important milestone in the efforts to consolidate the NPA in line with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He praised the caliber of board members, stating that their “duty is noble and compelling” and that the reconstituted board is positioned to enhance the NPA’s role as a strategic enabler of trade and economic development.
“Distinguished Board Members, your calibre is assuring and inspires confidence. The NPA, under your charge, must attain greater heights and contribute meaningfully to the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector and the economy at large,” Oloruntola said.
In his remarks, Board Chairman Senator Adedayo Adeyeye expressed gratitude to the president for the appointment, describing it as an honour.
“It is truly an honor and a privilege… I believe that Mr. President carefully selected this team, and I am confident we will deliver,” Adeyeye said.
He acknowledged the delay in assuming office but assured the board’s commitment to performance over timing.
“What matters is not when one starts, but that one brings value to the table,” he said.
The chairman also called on fellow board members to work as a unified team, urging maturity and integrity.
“We are not here to fight or compete; we are here to deliver results. Our goal should be to leave this board with our integrity intact, and a legacy of success that speaks for itself,” Adeyeye said.