Dynamic Leadership Unveiled at Rivers Port Complex as Kenechi Edith Okezie Assumes Role Amidst NPA Management Reshuffle
By Bon Peters
PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: In the wake of the recent organizational reshuffling spearheaded by Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Kenechi Edith Okezie has stepped into her new role as the Port Manager of Rivers Port Complex, replacing her predecessor, Mr. Michael Adamu, who has been redeployed to the NPA Headquarters for elevated responsibilities.
During the formal handover ceremony, outgoing Port Manager Mr. Michael Adamu presented a comprehensive handover note, shedding light on key developments within the complex. Adamu underscored the challenges faced, including non-operational berths and heightened traffic pressure attributed to increased cargo throughput.
Highlighting his achievements, Adamu emphasized his accomplishments, which include securing approval for Ibeto Jetty for direct vessel calls, commissioning tugboats, and successfully recovering a substantial debt of over $10.3 million. He also underscored the robust community relationship forged between Rivers Port and the host community. Regarding infrastructure, Adamu asserted ongoing infrastructural improvements and public-private partnership proposals, expressing confidence in the Port’s preparedness for future developments such as dredging, a Ship Repair Yard, and Port Expansion.
Expressing gratitude to the Executive Management for their unwavering support, Adamu affirmed a collective commitment to building a stronger Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for the benefit of Nigeria.
In her inaugural address, the newly appointed Port Manager, Mrs. Kenechi Okezie, commended the managerial prowess of her predecessor, acknowledging the numerous milestones achieved during his tenure. She appealed for the support of the management team, emphasizing the collaborative effort required for the successful execution of her mandate. Mrs. Okezie outlined her leadership priorities, emphasizing the well-being of staff, revenue enhancement, exceptional service delivery, and the facilitation of seamless trade operations.
Born on October 31, 1975, in Awka-Etiti, Anambra State, Mrs. Kenechi Okezie stands as the youngest and sole female Port Manager in the current administration. Holding a B.Sc in Marketing from the University of Port Harcourt (1997) and an MBA from the University of Lagos (2001), her 22-year career at the NPA reflects dedication and expertise.
Having begun as a Senior Marketing Officer at Tin-can Island Port Lagos in 2001, Mrs. Okezie’s journey included roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in her recent appointment. Noteworthy roles in her career include Secretary of the Voyage Meeting Reconciliation Committee for over five years, Administrative Secretary of three Directorate Retreat Committees, and serving as a Rapporteur at the 2018 International African Ports & Harbours (IAPH) Conference in Abuja.
Mrs. Okezie’s commitment extends beyond her professional endeavors. As a member of professional bodies such as CILT and NIM, she continues to positively influence the maritime sector, having represented the NPA at AFCFTA and contributing to committees. Beyond her career, Mrs. Kenechi Okezie is a devoted wife and proud mother of two daughters, symbolizing resilience, barrier-breaking, and a passion for lasting impact in the maritime industry.
