Abuja: The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated an 11-member Governing Board for the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in a move aimed at strengthening the governance structure and optimizing the performance of the authority.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the inauguration took place in Abuja, where Oyetola highlighted that the new board aligns with President Bola Tinubu's vision to reform institutions, enhance trade facilitation, and tap into the potential of Nigeria's marine and blue economy. The board is chaired by Mr Adedayo Adeyeye and includes members such as Dr Mercy Ilori, Mr Amirudin Tukur Idris, Ekpebide Ebi-Erin Daniel, and Sen. Lawan Jalo Zarami, among others.
The minister noted that the board, in compliance with the NPA Act, is tasked with key policy responsibilities, particularly concerning staffing and budget matters, as outlined in Sections 10 and 20 of the Act. These responsibilities are managed through the Staff and Establishment Committee and the Finance Committee. However, he emphasized that the daily operations of the NPA remain under the purview of the Managing Director and management team, as mandated by law.
Oyetola further referenced the Public Procurement Act and Public Service Rules to delineate the boundaries between board oversight and executive management, stressing that the board should provide policy direction without meddling in day-to-day operations. He urged board members to maintain discipline, professionalism, and a commitment to national interest in their roles, which are crucial for establishing a globally competitive port system.
In his remarks, Board Chairman Adeyeye expressed gratitude to the minister for the opportunity and committed to leading a results-focused board. He assured that the members, selected for their experience and competence, would align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and follow ministerial directives to transform the NPA. Adeyeye also emphasized working within established guidelines and policies to strengthen the NPA's effectiveness and support Nigeria's economic growth, promising harmonious collaboration with the ministry, NPA management, and staff to achieve the board's objectives.