Intrigues as first NPA female MD, Bala-Usman, steps aside for probe

Uba Group

BY BANYO TEMITAYO

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday, approved the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Hadiza Bala-Usman, to allow for investigation into allegations against her.

This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday night by the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Garba Shehu.

Though no specific offences were stated in the announcement, sources said Bala-Usman might have left the NPA for good as the forces allegedly against her had levelled serious allegations of misconduct against her management.

Ms Bala-Usman was first appointed as the MD of NPA in 2016 and her tenure renewed for another five years in January this year.

Mohammed Koko has been appointed as MD in acting capacity.

Until his appointment, Koko was the Executive Director, Finance, in the agency.

Full text:

PRESIDENT BUHARI APPROVES PANEL OF INQUIRY ON NPA, ASKS MD, HADIZA USMAN TO STEP ASIDE

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the recommendation of the Ministry of Transportation under Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi for the setting up of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the Management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA.

The President has also approved that the Managing Director, Hadiza Bala Usman step aside while the investigation is carried out. Mr Mohammed Koko will act in that position.

The panel is to be headed by the Director, Maritime Services of the Ministry while the Deputy Director, Legal of the same ministry will serve as Secretary.

Other members of the panel will be appointed by the Minister.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)