The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman has called on the Media to partner the NPA management to convey some of its programmes effectively to the public. She also charged the Media to always cross check their facts before publishing to reduce contrary stories.
She stated this while receiving a platinum award bestowed on her by Portgist on TV “as the trail blazer of the Maritime Industry” in her office in Lagos.
Usman said she believes in hard work first while awards should come after service, stressing that she operates open door policy at all times.
Bala Usman asserted that she has learnt so much within her short spell in the Port Industry
She added: “Collectively we are stronger, this industry is ours and Nigeria is our country therefore the success of the industry is for the betterment of all of us.”
Usman admonished maritime journalists to embrace an investigative approach in their profession stating that misinformation would not pay premium to the sector. Thus, she called on the Journalists to collaborate the NPA Management in a holistic effort to ensure the sector is positioned as a major player in the sub-region and beyond.
In his contribution, Chairman Port Consultative Council (PCC), Kunle Folarin, eulogised the NPA boss, describing her as one who has developed into a professional of repute deserving of accolades.
The PCC Chairman urged the MD to continue her sacrifice and due-diligence as stakeholders are only but appreciative of her efforts.
On his part, Executive Director Marine and Operations, NPA, Dr. Sekonte Davies said that it is gratifying sharing in the glory of his boss assuring that she has indeed brought enduring changes to the Port Industry.
Earlier, the Executive Producer/Editor-in-Chief of Portgist on TV, Dr. Kayode Farinto said the Managing Director of NPA is a trail blazer who deserves to be celebrated especially when her rich pedigree is put into consideration, affirming the saying “whatever a man can do, a woman can do better.”
Farinto added that what the MD achieved would better be appreciated considering the geographical zone she came from concluding that it was high time we respected and celebrated our women.
