PAP Envoy Lauds Tinubu, Hails Olu of Warri as NPA Operational Base Returns to Warri

The Sole Representative of The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Dr. Shola Mes, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the relocation of the Nigerian Ports Authority’s operational headquarters from Lagos to the Warri Sea Port, describing the decision as bold, visionary, and deeply reassuring for the economic future of Warri, Delta State and the nation at large.

In a press statement issued in Abuja Saturday December 6, Dr. Mese praised the President for demonstrating what he called “a refreshing sense of direction,” noting that the return of full-scale NPA operations to Warri reflects a long-awaited commitment to equity, fairness, justice and balanced national development. According to him, the move promises meaningful growth and development for the Warri economy and will help reposition Nigeria's maritime sector.

Dr. Mese, also extended profound appreciation to His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri, whose quiet diplomacy, he said, played a pivotal role in ensuring the realization of this historic directive by the Federal government. He eulogized the Monarch’s unwavering dedication to championing developmental initiatives that uplift the Itsekiri nation.

The Security Consultant and philanthropist expressed absolute confidence that the Itsekiri people, who are the original hosts of the Warri Port will provide a peaceful, secure and welcoming environment for NPA management and staff as operations resume. He emphasized that the Itsekiri communities are eager to see the long-abandoned port restored to its rightful place as a gateway of commerce and industry.

Dr. Mese urged business entrepreneurs, Itsekiri community stakeholders, Warri South Local Government , importers and investors to seize the laudable socio-economic opportunities the directive presents. He asserted that the renewed activity at the Warri Port will stimulate trade, create jobs, and reawaken Warri’s historic role as a commercial powerhouse of the Niger Delta region.

He particularly highlighted the strategic importance of the move, emphasizing that decongesting the Lagos ports while expanding operations in Warri Ports would strengthen national logistics, deepen regional integration, and attract both local and foreign investment. According to him, a large percentage of Warri youths stand to benefit immensely from fresh employment and entrepreneurial prospects.

He called on the Presidency and other key stakeholders to address lingering concerns raised by Itsekiri youths and ex-agitators, regarding gross marginalization within the Presidential Amnesty Programme, demanding fair and just review to ensure that Itsekiri benefits under the programme, receive their due without delay through his office, which is authorised by the Warri Monarch.

The Olu of Warri's Aide, urged the Federal and Delta State Governments to speed up the execution of the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) project and to upgrade critical infrastructure, especially roads, which he described as essential for efficient port operations. Dr. Mese reaffirmed that with the right support, Warri is poised to reclaim its place as a vibrant economic hub and a symbol of national progress.

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