By Moses Ebosele, ebosele@hotmail.com –
The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman on Tuesdaycontinued her interactive session with stakeholders of Rivers Ports Complex.
Addressing stakeholders comprising of NPA staff, security chiefs, labour leaders, contractors, among others, the Managing Director reiterated her resolve to sustain the engagement on a quarterly basis.
According to her, no stone would be left unturned in the ongoing effort to make Rivers Ports attractive and conducive for business.
Represented by the Executive Director in charge of Marine Operations, Sokonte Davies, the Managing Director disclosed that the Authority is to deploy six security boats to boost waterfronts security.
He said: “I assure you that this session will be on a quarterly basis.We want to hear from all stakeholders directly. We are ahead in the Ease of Doing business. Discuss your challenges with us. You can also put your observations in writing.”
Most staff who spoke at the event appealed to the Managing Director to make available more work tools.
Specifically, they complained of inadequate computers and poor network, among others.
Other stakeholders also complained of lack of inadequate security, poor electricity supply, shallow Bonny channel, among others.
They explained that the development is responsible for the “diversion of big vessels to other ports”.
The Managing Director promised to look into the complaints, request and respond promptly, adding that modalities are being put in place to improve on the workers welfare.
Speaking with Journalists after the event, the Managing Director said the Authority lacks the constitutional power to direct an importer/exporter on the port to use.
