The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the newly constituted governing board of the Nigerian Ports Authority, calling on members to embrace reform-driven governance that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision.

According to Oyetola, “It is both an honour and a privilege to welcome you all to the formal inauguration of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority. Today marks a critical step in our collective efforts to strengthen the governance structures of our maritime institutions and position the sector for greater national impact.

The minister said this during the inauguration ceremony of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Port Authority, which was held in Abuja on Monday.

“This inauguration of the Board aligns seamlessly with the broader vision of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to reposition key institutions of government for optimal performance.

“In accordance with the provisions of the NPA Act, this exercise underscores the administration’s firm commitment to institutional reforms aimed at enhancing trade facilitation, improving transparency, and unlocking the immense potential of our marine and blue economy for inclusive, sustainable economic growth.”

Oyetola highlighted the Board’s statutory responsibilities as defined by the Nigerian Ports Authority Act, particularly in staffing and financial oversight through the Staff and Establishment Committee and the Finance Committee. However, he stressed maintaining clear lines between governance and management.

“It is important to emphasise that the day-to-day operations and execution of policy decisions remain solely the responsibility of the Managing Director and the Management Team. This is stipulated in Section 10(3) of the NPA Act and further reinforced by the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007. Clear boundaries between governance and management must be maintained for operational integrity and efficiency,” Oyetola said.

He added, “The Board is to provide policy direction and supervision in line with government directives, but must not interfere with routine management or operational execution.

“To the Management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, I enjoin you to engage constructively with the Board in a manner that reflects professionalism, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Institutional harmony is vital, and this can only be achieved through cooperation, transparency, and unwavering dedication to national service.

“To the newly inaugurated Board Members, I congratulate you. I urge you to approach this assignment with discipline, focus, and a firm commitment to national interest. 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.”

Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated Board, Chairman Senator Adedayo Adeyeye expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the trust reposed in the members.

Describing Oyetola as “a pillar of encouragement,” Adeyeye praised the professionalism of the Ministry and the management of the NPA, pledging that the Board would work collaboratively and harmoniously to fulfill its mandate.

“We see the Honourable Minister as the head of the family under whose leadership the Board would function with a spirit of shared purpose and without discord,” he said, affirming the Board’s commitment to unity and cooperation.

The newly constituted Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority is chaired by Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, with Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho serving as the Managing Director. Other members include Hon. Olabanji Olawale Olateju, Hon. Amirudin Tukur Idris, and Barr. Kelechi Igwe, Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel, and Dr. Mercy Ilori, who represent the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Also on the board are Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar, the Executive Director of Engineering and Technical Services, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, the Executive Director of Marine and Operations, and Ms. Vivian C. Richard Edet, the Executive Director of Finance and Administration.