A civil society organisation, the National Coalition for Transformative Reforms (NCTR), has described the appointment of Abubakar Dan tsoho as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority as a strategic move by President Bola Tinubu to turn the maritime sector around for good.

Appointed in 2024, Dr. Dantsoho has implemented several reforms within a short period of time.

The group also lauded the administration of President Bola Tinubu for what it described as the comprehensive implementation of reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector, saying the initiatives have begun repositioning the nation’s ports for greater efficiency, investment and economic growth.

The group said the reforms, anchored on infrastructure renewal, digital transformation and regulatory restructuring, have revitalised the Marine and Blue Economy, with positive implications for revenue generation, trade facilitation and employment.

Executive Director of the coalition, Dr. Richard Ocheje, stated this on Wednesday in a statement issued in Abuja.

According to him, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated commitment to overhauling Nigeria’s port system through sustained investments and policy reforms aimed at making the country’s seaports more competitive within the West and Central African maritime corridor.

The NCTR boss said the NPA under Dantsoho had embarked on reforms that have improved public confidence in the agency while advancing government’s broader port modernisation agenda.

“The MD has within a short time, given the NPA a brand new image. As a regulator, the agency has left no one in doubt that the man in charge is a square peg in a square hole,” he said.

On the broader reforms being championed by the present administration, Ocheje said,”The £746 million United Kingdom Financing Deal signed in March 2026 is expected to provide funding for the upgrade and modernisation of the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, and the Tin Can Island Port.

“We cannot forget in a hurry the $1 billion seaport reconstruction, an ambitious programme aimed at a total rehabilitation of five major seaports within 48 months. They include Apapa, Tin Can Island, Calabar, Warri, and Port Harcourt/Onne seaports.

“Do not forget that the Federal Government has gone a great distance in the development and certification for five new deep seaports in Badagry (Lagos), Olokola (Ondo), Ibom (Akwa Ibom), Bakassi (Cross River), and Bonny (Rivers) to increase cargo capacity,” he said.

The Tinubu administration has consistently identified the Marine and Blue Economy as a strategic sector capable of driving economic diversification, boosting non-oil revenue and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and international trade. Since the creation of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in 2023, government has embarked on reforms designed to modernise port infrastructure, improve cargo handling efficiency and attract greater private sector investment.

Ocheje also commended the Federal Government for embracing technology to improve port administration and facilitate trade, noting that the ongoing digitisation of port processes would significantly reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks.

According to him, the implementation of the National Single Window represents a major milestone in simplifying cargo clearance procedures and enhancing operational efficiency.

“This digital platform is aimed at digitally integrating port operations and streamline cargo clearance, reducing vessel waiting and cargo turnaround times. No doubt, this will promote both efficiency and effectiveness,” he said.

On the regulatory front, Ocheje said the passage of the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill by the National Assembly underscored government’s determination to strengthen governance in the maritime sector.

He said the proposed legislation would establish an independent economic regulator with statutory powers to oversee port tariffs, monitor service delivery standards and promote transparency and competitiveness across Nigeria’s ports.

The coalition expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms, if sustained, would improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business, strengthen the country’s position as a regional maritime hub and unlock greater opportunities for investment, trade and economic development.

The North Central Truth and Transformation Agenda has commended President Bola Tinubu for the appointment of Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff to the President.

The group described the move as a clear demonstration of the President’s confidence in the integrity and leadership capabilities of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the group noted that Gbajabiamila’s wealth of experience in legislative and executive matters positions him ideally to drive the administration’s agenda for national development.

According to the group, the appointment comes at a critical time when strong, ethical leadership is required to navigate Nigeria’s complex socio-economic challenges.

They highlighted Gbajabiamila’s track record of transparency, dedication to public service, and proven ability to foster unity across political divides as key factors that earned him the President’s trust.

The North Central Truth and Transformation Agenda emphasized that this decision reflects Tinubu’s commitment to surrounding himself with individuals of impeccable character.

“President Tinubu has once again shown visionary leadership by appointing a man whose integrity is beyond reproach. Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila has consistently demonstrated honesty and dedication throughout his public service career,” said Edward Abakpa, Coordinator of the group in the signed statement.

“This appointment is not just a reward for loyalty but a strategic choice that underscores the President’s confidence in the Chief of Staff’s ability to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda with utmost integrity. The North Central region stands firmly behind this decision.”

The group further praised Gbajabiamila’s role in strengthening democratic institutions during his tenure as Speaker, where he facilitated landmark legislation that advanced economic reforms, security initiatives, and social welfare programs.

They pointed out that his collaborative approach helped bridge gaps between the executive and legislature, leading to smoother governance and accelerated policy implementation under the current administration.

According to the group, Gbajabiamila’s new role will enhance coordination within the Presidency and ensure that government policies are executed with efficiency and accountability.

His appointment is seen as a boost to investor confidence and a signal of stability in the nation’s highest office, particularly in light of ongoing reforms in the oil sector, infrastructure development, and fiscal management.

“Gbajabiamila’s appointment reaffirms that merit and integrity remain the cornerstones of President Tinubu’s leadership style. We have no doubt that he will bring the same excellence and ethical standard that defined his speakership to this new assignment,” Abakpa stated.

“The people of the North Central are proud to associate with this progressive step. It validates our belief in a united Nigeria where competent leaders from all zones are given the opportunity to serve with distinction and contribute meaningfully to national growth.”

In the wake of the appointment, the North Central Truth and Transformation Agenda called on all well-meaning Nigerians, especially stakeholders in the region, to support the Chief of Staff in discharging his duties.

The group urged citizens to rally behind the Tinubu administration’s vision, noting that Gbajabiamila’s presence will accelerate the delivery of tangible dividends of democracy across all geopolitical zones.

The statement highlighted specific areas where Gbajabiamila is expected to make immediate impact, including strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms, promoting inter-agency synergy, and ensuring that the welfare of public servants and ordinary Nigerians remains a priority.

“Under Gbajabiamila’s stewardship as Chief of Staff, we anticipate greater accountability and faster implementation of policies that uplift the masses. His integrity is a shield against any form of malfeasance,” Abakpa remarked.

“President Tinubu deserves commendation for trusting a leader who has never compromised on principles. This appointment will undoubtedly consolidate the gains already recorded by the administration and chart a path for sustainable development in Nigeria.”

*Lauds Gbajabiamila as a trusted gatekeeper

The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for his transparent and decisive approach to the ongoing Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) saga involving Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the group described the President’s directive to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) as a clear demonstration of commitment to accountability and good governance.

The Forum praised the swift action, which it said would unravel the truth behind the alleged fictitious agency and restore public confidence in the Presidency.

Furthermore, the AYIF lauded Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila for what they described as his steadfast service and role as a trusted gatekeeper in the Presidency.

According to the group, President Tinubu’s intervention has set a high standard for handling sensitive matters that threaten the integrity of government institutions.

The statement said the directive for a comprehensive probe within 30 days underscores a no-nonsense attitude towards forgery, impersonation, and any form of corruption, regardless of the individuals involved.

The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum noted that this move reflects Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritises transparency and the protection of national institutions from exploitation.

Comrade Musa Abdul, in the statement signed on behalf of the Forum, said, “We, the Arewa Youth Integrity Forum, stand firmly with President Bola Tinubu for his bold and transparent handling of the PFIPC matter.

“By ordering the ICPC to investigate this saga thoroughly, Mr. President has shown that no one is above the law and that his administration is committed to rooting out any elements that seek to tarnish the image of the government.”

He added, “This is leadership by example. In a time when many expect cover-ups, President Tinubu has chosen the path of openness, allowing independent investigation to take its course.

“We are confident that the outcome will vindicate the truth and strengthen the foundations of our democracy. The Arewa people are proud of this decisive action that puts Nigeria first.”

The PFIPC saga erupted after Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew presented himself as the Director-General of the council, claiming presidential backing and making serious allegations against high-ranking officials, including Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The Presidency has consistently maintained that the PFIPC is not a legitimate government body and that any related documents were forged.

President Tinubu’s order to the ICPC includes probing the origins of the fake agency, forged appointment letters, bank accounts, and any possible collaborators within or outside government circles.

The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum views the President’s response as timely and necessary to prevent further damage to the administration’s reputation.

The group also urged all patriotic Nigerians, especially youth from the Northern region, to support the government’s efforts in ensuring due process is followed without interference.

Comrade Musa Abdul further stated, “The PFIPC issue has tested the resilience of this administration, but President Tinubu has risen to the occasion with integrity and transparency.

“We commend the ICPC for the task ahead and trust that their findings will expose the truth, whether it involves impersonators or any enablers within the system.

“As youths from the Arewa region, we reject any attempt to politicise this matter or use it to undermine the good works of the Tinubu administration.

“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to rally behind the President as he steers the country towards progress and accountability.”

Meanwhile, the group dismissed allegations leveled against Gbajabiamila as baseless and motivated by mischief, expressing full confidence in his integrity and dedication to national service.

The Forum called for support for Gbajabiamila to continue his duties without distraction.

Comrade Musa Abdul remarked, “We particularly laud Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila as a trusted gatekeeper whose loyalty to President Tinubu and the nation remains unquestionable.

“He has served with distinction, and we reject any smear campaign aimed at distracting him from his critical responsibilities.”

He concluded, “Gbajabiamila embodies the values of honesty and hard work that the Arewa Youth Integrity Forum stands for.

“Under his watch as Chief of Staff, the Presidency has made significant strides, and we are confident that this saga will only reinforce his position as a pillar of this administration.”

The Forum also addressed broader implications of the saga for governance in Nigeria.

It urged relevant authorities to strengthen internal controls and verification processes across ministries and agencies to prevent future occurrences of similar impersonations.