NPA mourns Paul ‘Texas’ Erakhifu, Celebrates 32 years of service, Global impact
NPA Mourns Paul ‘Texas’ Erakhifu, Celebrates 32 Years of Service, Global Impact
By Babatunde Aremu
The Nigerian Ports Authority is mourning the passing of Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu, fondly known as “Texas,” who died on Friday, 1 May 2026, after 32 years of service to the Authority.
In a tribute signed by General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the NPA described Texas as a staff member whose diligence, discipline and humor left an indelible mark on colleagues and the organization.
Appointed on 17 October 1994 as a junior staff on Grade Level 3, Erakhifu rose through the ranks to Grade Level 13 through what the NPA called “diligence, discipline, and determination.”
Beyond his official duties, he was celebrated for his passion for photography and his signature greetings, “You have made my day” and “Powerful,” which colleagues said reflected his infectious sense of humor and positive outlook.
Erakhifu combined his work at NPA with academic and professional development. He earned a BA in Literature in 2005, an MA in International Relations in 2012, and an MSc in Mass Communication.
To hone his photography and media skills, he trained at the London Film Academy, London Academy of Media, Film & Television, and the Texas School of Photography in the U.S.—the country that inspired his nickname.
His role often took him beyond Nigeria. He represented the Authority on high-level engagements in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, the U.S., Japan, Ghana, Togo, Congo, Guinea, South Africa and other countries, bringing visibility to the NPA on the global stage.
The NPA said Texas was also a writer and mentor, authoring two books that “continue to light paths and lighten burdens” for readers.
“Though his absence leaves a deep void, we take comfort in the words of James Wrubel: ‘No one truly dies who is remembered,’” the tribute read.
The Authority extended condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, pledging to honor his legacy of service, excellence and joy.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant all who mourn him the strength to bear the loss,” the statement concluded.
