As NPA Ends Contract Labor Era
Reported by: Prince Saah
Monrovia, Liberia – Managing Director of the National Port Authority (NPA) Sekou A. M. Dukuly, has taken a steps in safeguarding the welfare, economic stability, and dignity of Liberian workers by formally ending the use of contract labor and moving former contractors into full employment. Speaking at an appreciation event hosted by former contractors on Friday, July 31, 2026, Dukuly stated that the decision demonstrates the NPA administration’s dedication to putting people at the core of institutional improvements.
“The history of contractors here at the National Port Authority has ended. There will be no more contractors here,” Dukuly declared to loud applause.
Dukuly said the administration’s decision was guided by the belief that a state-owned enterprise must prioritize the welfare of citizens and workers alongside financial performance. “Businesses make decisions based on numbers. But when you are a state-owned enterprise, profit cannot be more important than people. Profit cannot be more important than your own citizens,” he explained.
The NPA chief clarified, however, that upon taking office, the present administration examined the organization’s staffing and payment procedures and pledged to improve the working conditions for those who were paid less. He said the administration had fulfilled its promise to prioritize workers earning less than US$1,000 per month, noting that a significant number of employees hired before the current leadership took office fell within that category.
Dukuly stated that despite criticism and difficulties, the NPA leadership is still inspired by the smiles and gratitude shown by employees. “By seeing you smiling, we smile. By seeing you gratified, we are also grateful to God for the opportunity,” he told the workers.
The NPA boss also credited the NPA’s Board of Directors, senior management team, and employees for supporting reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening the institution’s operations. According to the managing director, the administration has effectively completed collective bargaining talks, enhanced employee perks, and handled issues related to welfare and health insurance.
He also revealed that the NPA has implemented significant operational changes, such as enhancing access to important infrastructure and extending port operations to a 24-hour system. “The gateway of any country should not operate only for a few hours, stressing that continuous port operations are necessary to facilitate trade, reduce delays, and support economic growth,” Dukuly said.
With the goal to improve the conditions for Liberian companies and regional trade, he continued, the NPA is collaborating with the Liberia Revenue Authority and other partners to modify customs-related processes. Additionally, Dukuly stated that the NPA has made efforts to guarantee that APM Terminals employees receive the pay and benefits stipulated in current contracts.
“What our workers receive is not a gift. They have earned those salaries and the benefits that come with them,” he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of the new contractors, Nathenial Cooper praised Dukuly for what he described as visionary and compassionate leadership, saying his administration had restored their confidence and given them renewed hope for a better future.
“Today, we stand before you not merely as former contractors, but as partners in nation-building,” he said.
Cooper pointed out that despite helping to run Liberia’s main maritime gateway, many contractors have worked for years at the NPA without receiving the full advantages of permanent employment. He claims that both they and their families have benefited from the shift to full employment. “Today, our family members are smiling because of the news we are receiving from you, thanking the NPA management for recognizing the value, competence, and potential of Liberian workers,” he narrated.
The former contractors pledged to justify the confidence placed in them by demonstrating professionalism, accountability, quality workmanship, and timely service delivery. Rev. Dr. J. Luther Tarpeh, the chairman of the NPA Board, commended Dukuly and the management group for carrying out the Board’s mission of preserving jobs and enhancing the quality of life for employees.
According to Tarpeh, the NPA has decided to look into measures to keep jobs and uphold the dignity of Liberian families, while certain governmental institutions have laid off workers because of financial difficulties. “The NPA is saying we will keep you working and continue serving the Liberian people,” he said.
According to the Board Chairman, Dukuly is an action-oriented leader with a consistent vision for the NPA. He claimed that many workers will be able to return home with more self-assurance and dignity as a result of the former contractors’ shift into full employment. “These men and women will now return home and appear to their families as respectable human beings,” Tarpeh stated.
He however, advised the recently hired employees to maintain their discipline and dedication to their jobs. “Now that you have crossed over, do not forget your responsibilities. The administration will hold you accountable,” Tarpeh added.
In addition, the chairman of the ruling Unity Party advocated for changes that would make the NPA more business-friendly, especially for Liberian businesses, while preserving the Port’s status as a significant entry point to the nation’s economy. They also pledged to help the NPA realize its goal of being a cutting-edge, effective, and top-tier port organization.
