By Oluyinka Onigbinde & Joshua Yousouph
Top figures in Nigeria’s maritime industry, including former Minister of Interior, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho; Chairman of Starzs Group and pioneer President of the Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), Engr. Greg Ogbeifun; and former National President of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Olayiwola Shittu, have confirmed their participation in the forthcoming reception in honour of past presidents of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).
The event, scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, is already attracting widespread interest across the maritime sector, with a growing list of stakeholders indicating their readiness to attend what is expected to be a major industry gathering.
Organised to celebrate the contributions of former MARAN leaders, the reception aims to recognise their roles in shaping the association into a strong voice within Nigeria’s maritime journalism space.
In addition to the confirmed personalities, several dignitaries from government agencies—particularly those under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy—as well as corporate organisations and industry groups, are also expected to grace the occasion.
MARAN, in a statement announcing the conclusion of arrangements for the event, described the reception as a landmark initiative designed to celebrate leadership, service, and the enduring impact of maritime journalists on the nation’s blue economy.
The statement, jointly signed by Chairman of the MARAN Caretaker Committee, Mr Tunde Ayodele, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr Funsho Olojo, noted that preparations were finalised after weeks of consultations and stakeholder engagement, which have yielded strong support from across the industry.
According to the association, the ceremony will bring together policymakers, regulators, terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and other critical stakeholders, underscoring the importance of maritime journalism in promoting accountability, influencing policy, and driving sectoral growth.
Ayodele, as quoted in the statement, said the reception would also serve as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the media and industry operators, especially at a time when the maritime sector is undergoing significant reforms and modernisation.
Olojo, who also chairs MARAN’s Board of Trustees, emphasised that the enthusiastic response from stakeholders highlights the importance of the event to the wider maritime community.
He added that the reception would provide a platform to celebrate excellence and honour the sacrifices of past leaders who contributed significantly to the growth and reputation of the association.
“MARAN, as the pioneer beat association in the maritime industry, has produced individuals who have dedicated their time, energy, and intellect to building a formidable organisation,” he said.
Olojo further noted that many of the association’s former presidents have gone on to excel in diverse fields, including ministry, law, media entrepreneurship, and public service, adding that the event would showcase and celebrate their continued achievements.
The programme for the reception is expected to feature award presentations, goodwill messages, and networking sessions aimed at fostering stronger relationships among stakeholders while promoting excellence in maritime journalism.
As momentum builds ahead of the event, MARAN has called on industry players, corporate organisations, and well-meaning individuals to support the initiative through sponsorship, partnerships, and active participation.
Founded 38 years ago, MARAN remains a leading maritime journalists’ association in Nigeria, with its International Press Centre located in Apapa, Lagos. The association continues to promote ethical journalism, capacity building, and informed reporting within the maritime and blue economy sector.
