The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has expressed profound grief over the passing of one of its long-serving staff members, Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu, popularly known as "Texas." Erakhifu reportedly died on Friday, May 1, after years of dedicated service to the authority.
NPA Pays Tribute to a Committed Professional
In a tribute issued by the General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the NPA described the late staff member as a committed professional who significantly contributed to promoting the organisation's public image through his photography work and media engagements. Onyemekara stated, "Although we cannot determine our appointed date of birth and death, we definitely can determine how we want to be remembered." He added that Erakhifu intentionally built a legacy through his professionalism, humour, and interactions with colleagues.
Career Marked by Dedication and Growth
According to Onyemekara, Erakhifu joined the NPA on October 17, 1994, as a junior employee on Grade Level 3 and steadily rose through the ranks to become a senior staff member on Grade Level 13. The late photographer distinguished himself through discipline, diligence, and commitment to duty throughout his career. He was widely known for his expressions, "you have made my day" and "powerful," which became part of his personality both within and outside the workplace.
Academic and Professional Excellence
The authority further noted that Erakhifu pursued academic advancement alongside his professional responsibilities. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature in 2005, a Master's degree in International Relations in 2012, and later obtained a Master of Science degree in Mass Communication. He also underwent professional training at the London Film Academy, London Academy of Media, Film and Television, as well as the Texas School of Photography in the United States. The nickname "Texas" reflected his admiration for the American city.
International Assignments and Legacy
The NPA recalled that Erakhifu participated in several international official engagements alongside former chief executives of the authority, travelling to countries including Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, Ghana, and South Africa. Onyemekara remarked, "The life and times of Texas validated the Biblical truism that a man diligent in his business shall stand before kings and not mean men." He added that although the late staff member's death has created a difficult vacuum, his legacy will continue to live on through his contributions to knowledge, including the authorship of two books.
The NPA's tribute underscores the immense loss felt by the organisation and the lasting impact of Erakhifu's dedication and service.
