The House of Representatives,has inaugurated an Ad-Hoc Committee mandated to investigate and evaluate the performance of concessionaires managing federal air and sea ports, as well as associated shipping activities from 2006 to 2025.
Addressing the committee at the inauguration, Loari Kwamoti stressed the House’s constitutional role in ensuring transparency and safeguarding public assets.
He noted: “This initiative is not aimed at undermining legitimate private sector participation.It is designed to determine whether these concessions have provided value for money, adhered to contractual obligations, and contributed effectively to national economic growth, employment, and government revenue.”
He explained that the committee’s mandate is extensive, covering a review of concession agreements, assessment of revenue inflows to the Federal Government, evaluation of regulatory compliance and safety standards, appraisal of infrastructure development and service quality, identification of weaknesses or systemic gaps, and formulation of recommendations to guide policy and future concessions.
He added:“This is a responsibility of great significance.The House has placed its trust in your integrity, professionalism, and patriotism. Your work must be impartial, evidence-based, and fair to all parties, while protecting public trust.”
The Committee Chairman, Hon. Akinlayo Kolawole, highlighted the strategic importance of Nigeria’s port and terminal infrastructure.
Nigeria’s seaports, airports, and terminals are more than commercial hubs,” he said.
He added:“They are national economic gateways, critical security infrastructure, and vital enablers of trade and development.
Therefore, it is essential that this Committee conducts a thorough, transparent, and accountable review of their performance over the past two decades.”
He added that the Committee will engage with key government agencies and private sector players, including the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigeria Customs Service, the Bureau of Public Procurement, the Shippers’ Council, domestic vessel operators, shipping companies, and banks.
“Our review will focus on compliance with legal frameworks, operational efficiency, revenue performance, and other critical areas,” Kolawole said.
“The goal is to ensure that the Federal Government and the Nigerian people receive maximum benefits from these port and terminal operations.”
He urged all members and stakeholders to execute their duties with professionalism, integrity, and dedication to national interests.
“Through meticulous oversight, data-driven analysis, and constructive engagement, we are confident this Committee will produce recommendations that enhance the efficiency, transparency, and economic impact of Nigeria’s ports,” he emphasized.
“Our objective is to strengthen infrastructure governance, improve service delivery, promote investor discipline, and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s concession programs.
“I call on everyone involved to approach this process with seriousness, honesty, and a shared commitment to the national good.”
