The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has dismissed recent online reports alleging multi-billion-naira corruption within the organisation, describing the claims as baseless and lacking credibility.

In a statement signed by the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the NPA said it was compelled to respond in order to maintain public trust and clarify all the issues raised.

According to the Authority, all budget and expenditure activities are closely monitored by the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the Budget Office of the Federation, and the National Assembly. “This makes the allegation of misapplication of budgetary provisions impossible,” the statement noted.

Addressing claims concerning the dredging contract at the Warri Escravos Channel, the NPA said the work became necessary to mitigate increasing siltation, which posed risks to vessels and investment. It added that the emergency procurement followed all stipulated procedures under the Procurement Act of 2007.

The Authority also explained that marine equipment, such as tugboats and pilot cutters, was acquired legally in response to the operational demands associated with Nigeria’s crude oil sales to domestic refineries. These purchases, it said, were fully compliant with procurement regulations.

Responding to the claim of document suppression, the NPA described it as “untenable,” citing existing civil service rules that set processing timelines for official documentation. It also rejected as false allegations concerning financial transactions at its London office, stating unequivocally that no such dealings occurred.

On its 2024 revenue increase, the Authority attributed the growth to foreign exchange gains, noting that most of its revenue is denominated in foreign currency, in line with global maritime practice.

The statement further addressed concerns about employee promotion and morale. It confirmed that promotions, including to General Manager and Assistant General Manager levels, were conducted in accordance with the Authority’s conditions of service to address long-standing staff stagnation. “Contrary to allegations, staff morale is currently high, as acknowledged by the in-house labour unions,” the statement said.

The NPA also noted that all contract revocations or renewals were handled in line with existing laws and contractual obligations.

To boost efficiency and competitiveness, the Authority disclosed that it has secured Federal Executive Council approval for its Port Modernisation Programme. It added that efforts are underway to improve automation through the Port Community System, a key component of the National Single Window project.

The NPA urged media organisations to verify their reports before publication, stating it remains open to constructive engagement. “We assure all stakeholders of our continued focus on infrastructure renewal and process automation,” the statement concluded.