In this article, we’ll explore how much NPA pays Corpers. If you’re a Corper or a prospective Corps member aspiring to serve at NPA but have little or no idea how much NPA pays, then this article is for you. Read to the end.
But before we delve into that, let’s briefly examine NPA itself—its history, duties, and other information every Corper needs to know about this agency.
About NPA
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is a federal government agency tasked with the governance and operation of ports across Nigeria. The history of port operations and development in the country dates back to the mid-19th century, with efforts to provide facilities for ocean-going vessels beginning in 1909 with the opening of Lagos Lagoon.
The development of Apapa Port in the South West was initiated in 1913, leading to the construction of the first four deep-water berths in 1921, totaling 548.64 meters. Additionally, the conceptualization of the Port of Port Harcourt in 1913, driven by the discovery of coal in Enugu, resulted in its opening for business. The completion of the Enugu railway line in 1916 facilitated the development of four berths at Port Harcourt, supporting the export of coal and the importation of goods.
To address institutional weaknesses and establish a coherent policy framework, the Nigerian Port Authority was formed as a continuous Public Corporation by the Ports Act of 1954. This move aimed to streamline port development, which had previously been carried out on an ad hoc basis driven by changes in the level and demand of sea-borne trade.
In 2003, the Federal Government of Nigeria embarked on an initiative to enhance efficiency at the country’s ports, leading to the adoption of the landlord model for all Nigerian Ports. This transformative move involved the concession of 25 terminals to private terminal operators through lease agreements spanning 10 to 25 years. Notably, one of these concessions followed a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement.
As part of the port reorganization process, the number of ports was streamlined from eight to six major ports. Two of these major ports were located in Lagos, namely the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can-Island Port Complex, while the remaining four were distributed in the east—Calabar Port, Rivers Ports, Onne Ports Complex, and Delta Ports Complex.
The reform program, initiated to drive these changes, involved the advertisement for Expression of Interest in December 2003, managed by the National Council on Privatization with the Bureau of Public Enterprise as the transaction agent. Out of 110 expressions of interest, 94 were pre-qualified. Subsequent steps included pre-bid conferences, data room activities, physical due diligence, and the issuance of requests for proposals. Evaluation of technical bids and opening of financial offers were carried out to determine successful bidders.
The negotiation of concession agreements involved a Public Sector Team comprising the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Bureau of Public Enterprise. Once these agreements were successfully negotiated, they were signed, and a transition program was initiated in preparation for the handover. Under this new arrangement, certain functions and responsibilities of the Authority were ceded to the private sector.
Duties
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is entrusted with a range of crucial duties related to the effective functioning and management of ports in the country. These responsibilities include the ownership and administration of both land and water within port limits. NPA plays a pivotal role in the planning and development of operational infrastructure within the ports, ensuring they meet required standards.
Leasing and concession of port infrastructure, along with the establishment of benchmark tariff structures, fall under the purview of NPA. The authority is also responsible for overseeing nautical and harbor operations, as well as conducting hydrographic surveys. Additionally, NPA is actively involved in addressing marine incidents and pollution, contributing to the maintenance of safety and security in common user areas within the ports.
NPA plays a regulatory role by enacting and enforcing port regulations and bye-laws. This includes day-to-day monitoring of operations and the enforcement of relevant sections outlined in various agreements. Furthermore, the authority is involved in essential maritime services such as towage, mooring, bunkering, ship chandelling, and facilitating ship repairs. In essence, NPA plays a multifaceted role in ensuring the efficient and secure operation of Nigeria’s ports.
How Much Does NPA Pay Corpers?
The Nigerian Ports Authority pays Corpers a monthly allowance ranging from N39,000 to N42,000. However, the actual pay can vary based on the Corper’s specific role and where they are serving. Different roles may have slightly different pay scales, and the location of the NPA office matters too.
For more information on how to serve at the agency as your PPA, it’s best to contact the NPA directly. They can give you precise details based on your role, responsibilities, and the location where you’ll be serving.