NPERA to Deepen Transparency, Accountability in Port Sector
The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA), has reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible management of public resources as it settles into its new role as Nigeria’s port economic regulator.
The Director-General of NPERA, Dr. Akutah Pius, stated this recently when he received a delegation from the Civil Society Coalition for Transparency and Good Governance (CSCTGG), led by its Executive Director, Comr. Success Uko, on a courtesy visit to the Agency’s Abuja Liaison Office.
Akutah said the Nigerian Shippers’ Council had transitioned into NPERA under the new legal and regulatory framework, positioning the Agency to provide stronger economic regulation of Nigeria’s port sector.
He assured the delegation that NPERA remained committed to responsible management of public funds in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities, as well as promoting regulatory practices that enhance confidence and efficiency in the maritime sector.
The DG said the Agency would give due consideration to the Coalition’s request for collaboration and take appropriate formal steps to explore areas of partnership that align with NPERA’s mandate.
Earlier, the Executive Director of CSCTGG, Comr. Success Uko, said the Coalition was seeking a working relationship with NPERA to promote transparency, accountability, public awareness, stakeholder participation and good governance in the maritime sector.
Uko described NPERA as a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s transport and maritime sector, noting that effective regulation and access to accurate information were important to improving service delivery and strengthening public confidence.
He said the Coalition had developed initiatives focusing on transparency, accountability, good governance and community development, and sought NPERA’s support towards their implementation and wider impact.
According to him, the proposed collaboration would also promote greater awareness among shippers, importers, exporters, transport operators and other stakeholders about policies, procedures, rights and responsibilities within the maritime sector.
He assured NPERA of the Coalition’s readiness to support legitimate programmes and initiatives of the Agency that are consistent with its statutory mandate.
