MARAN Inauguration: Stakeholders Call for Stronger Media Ethics to Drive Maritime Growth
By James Shodiya -Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have called for ethical journalism as a foundation for transparency, accountability, security, and sustainable development, while urging maritime reporters to remain committed to professionalism and responsible reporting.
The call was made on Tuesday in Lagos during the inauguration of the newly elected Executive Council of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), led by President Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde.
The event convened industry leaders, government officials, security agencies, freight forwarders, and media practitioners under the theme: *”Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development.”*
Key Highlights:
1. Keynote Address
Mr. Bolaji Abimbola, CEO of Indigo Integrated, described journalism as the backbone of accountability and public trust. He warned that inaccurate or sensational reports on port congestion, piracy, and regulations can erode investor confidence and distort public perception. He urged journalists to uphold truth, fairness, balance, and data-driven investigative reporting.
2. Chairman of the Occasion
Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa, President of MASPAN, stressed that ethical and investigative journalism promotes transparency and good governance in the maritime industry. He charged reporters to commit to factual reporting and continuous professional development.
3. Inaugural Address by MARAN PresidentMr. Oluyinka Onigbinde pledged to build a stronger, united, and professionally vibrant MARAN. He outlined priorities: capacity building, investigative and data-driven journalism, digital reporting tools, members’ welfare, and stronger stakeholder engagement with editorial independence.
“We are expected to inform, educate, investigate, analyse and hold institutions accountable. We must resist sensationalism and reject misinformation,” he said.
The elections are behind us. There is only one MARAN.
4. Stakeholder Support
NAGAFF, represented by General Secretary Mr. Godfrey Nwosu, reaffirmed commitment to collaborate with MARAN on training, research, and advocacy.
CP Toyin Agbaminoja, the Western Zonre Cordinator represented by ASP Isaac Hundeyin, commended MARAN’s professionalism in security reporting and pledged continued support for a safe, business-friendly port environment.
The event ended with a renewed commitment to uphold ethical journalism as a tool for maritime development, institutional accountability, and growth of the maritime sector
