NPA Board Inauguration: Oyetola Calls for Institutional Discipline, Reform
By Peterside Rejoice
The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the newly constituted Governing Board of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), marking a critical step in the Federal Government’s renewed drive to reposition the maritime sector as a key engine of national economic growth.
The formal inauguration ceremony held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Abuja, brought together top officials, stakeholders and newly appointed board members. It underscored the Tinubu administration’s commitment to institutional reform and efficient governance within critical sectors.
Speaking during the event, Minister Oyetola described the inauguration as a strategic move aimed at strengthening the governance structure of the NPA and ensuring alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader economic transformation agenda.
“This move reflects the administration’s deep commitment to reforms that enhance trade facilitation, boost transparency, and unlock the full potential of the marine and blue economy in a manner that is both inclusive and sustainable,” Oyetola stated.
He highlighted the crucial policy oversight role assigned to the Board by the Nigerian Ports Authority Act, especially in matters relating to human resource management and financial oversight. He clarified, however, that while the Board plays an essential role in policy direction and supervision, day to day management of the Authority remains the exclusive responsibility of the Managing Director and executive management team.
“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 clearly stipulated in Section 10(3) of the NPA Act and further reinforced by the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007,” he said.
Oyetola stressed the need to maintain clear boundaries between governance and management functions to ensure operational efficiency and integrity.
He urged the Board to work in synergy with the management, calling for constructive engagement, mutual respect and a shared commitment 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,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the Board, Chairman Senator Adedayo Adeyeye thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting them with such a significant responsibility and expressed appreciation to the Minister for his continuous support.
He lauded the calibre and expertise of the Board’s composition, describing it as a well balanced and competent team poised to make an impact. Adeyeye also expressed the Board’s readiness to collaborate closely with the NPA executive management and the Ministry in pursuit of shared objectives.
“We are committed to working in unity and partnership under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, who we see as the head of this family. Together, we will drive a new era of productivity and reform in the NPA,” he stated.
The newly inaugurated NPA Governing Board includes Senator Adedayo Adeyeye as Chairman and Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho as Managing Director. Other members are Hon. Olabanji Olawale Olateju, Hon. Amirudin Tukur Idris, Barr. Kelechi Igwe, Ekpebide Ebi Erin Daniel, and Dr. Mercy Ilori representing the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. Executive directors on the Board include Engr. Ibrahim Abba Umar (Engineering and Technical Services), Engr. Olalekan Badmus (Marine and Operations), and Ms. Vivian C. Richard Edet (Finance and Administration).
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