By Oluyinka Onigbinde & Joshua Yousouph
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has called on maritime journalists to uphold ethical journalism, embrace constructive reporting, and work closely with industry stakeholders to promote the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
The appeal was made on Monday when the newly elected leadership of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) paid a courtesy visit to the Agency’s headquarters in Lagos.
The MARAN delegation was received by NIMASA’s Deputy Director of Public Relations, Osagie Edward, alongside senior officials of the agency’s Public Relations Department.
The visit, which marked the first official engagement between the new MARAN executives and NIMASA, provided an opportunity for both parties to explore areas of collaboration, particularly in capacity building for maritime journalists, information dissemination, and support for the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda.
Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN expressed condolences to NIMASA over the death of a staff member, Ifenyinwa, who reportedly passed away over the weekend.
He sympathized with the management and staff of the agency, praying for the repose of the deceased’s soul and for strength for her family and colleagues during the period of mourning.
The MARAN President noted that the visit was aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between the association and NIMASA while fostering deeper collaboration in advancing the maritime industry through responsible and informed journalism.
He stressed the need for structured capacity development programmes for maritime journalists, noting that enhanced industry knowledge would improve the quality of reporting and contribute to the sector’s growth.
Responding, Edward congratulated the newly-elected executives on their emergence, describing their election as a demonstration of the confidence reposed in them by members of the association.
He acknowledged the enduring relationship between MARAN and NIMASA, noting that the association has remained an important stakeholder in the maritime industry for over two decades.
“We have known MARAN for over 20 years, from the days when press releases were physically distributed to the present digital era. You are now leading a digital MARAN and I encourage you to build on the achievements of your predecessors,” he said.
Edward assured the association of NIMASA’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with maritime journalists for the development of the industry and the nation’s economy.
According to him, the media plays a strategic role in showcasing the opportunities available within Nigeria’s blue economy and attracting investments capable of unlocking its full potential.
“The Nigerian blue economy presents enormous opportunities. If the sector is properly projected and branded, the world will become more aware of the potentials we have and investors will come seeking opportunities. This will ultimately benefit the country,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the Director-General of NIMASA, Dayo Mobereola, is leading efforts to position Nigeria as a globally recognized maritime nation.
“As a maritime administration, the DG believes Nigeria should be a global leader in maritime administration, and we are working towards that objective. We can only achieve it by working together in the interest of the country,” Edward added.
Addressing MARAN’s request for more training opportunities, Edward reiterated that capacity development remains a key priority for the agency.
“Capacity building is very dear to NIMASA management. We have noted your request and discussions are already ongoing regarding training opportunities for the media. We will continue to engage because informed and constructive reporting is beneficial to the industry,” he said.
Also speaking, Assistant Director of Public Relations, Daniel Kajo, urged maritime journalists to remain committed to professional ethics and responsible reporting.
Kajo emphasized the value of constructive criticism and balanced journalism, describing the media as an indispensable partner in the development of the maritime sector.
He encouraged journalists to continue holding institutions accountable while ensuring that reports remain factual, objective, and aligned with national development goals.
The meeting ended with both NIMASA and MARAN reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation in information sharing, professional development, and the promotion of Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy aspirations.
