Maritime
MARITIME stakeholders have urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, stressing that responsible reporting strengthens democracy and significantly influences national development outcomes across the country.
They added that journalism was more than reporting events; it anchors accountability, public trust, and informed citizenship.
They made this known at the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) inauguration of its new executive council on Tuesday in Lagos.
The inauguration had the theme,’ Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime & National Development’.
Mr Bolaji Abimbola, a public relations expert, said ethical journalism demand truth, accuracy, fairness, independence, accountability, and humanity.
According to Abimbola, these principles transform journalism into a public good that serves society rather than mere commercial interests.
“Across Africa, where misinformation spreads rapidly, ethical reporting becomes essential, it counters falsehoods, strengthens institutions, and ensures citizens make decisions based on verified, credible information.
“Maritime development covers shipping, ports, fisheries, and offshore resources. In Nigeria, this sector drives trade, creates jobs, and contributes significantly to economic growth and national revenue.
“Unethical maritime reporting can harm development, false claims about piracy, congestion, or policy instability discourage investors, disrupt trade flows, and damage the credibility of key institutions,” he said.
Abimbola noted that ethical journalism enhanced maritime safety by reporting verified facts, avoid sensationalism, support informed policymaking, and ensure public understanding of security and operational realities.
He added that environmental reporting within the blue economy demand responsibility.
“Ethical journalists highlight oil spills, illegal fishing, and coastal erosion while holding stakeholders accountable for sustainable practices.
“Maritime reporting faces challenges including technical jargon, restricted access, and advertiser pressure. These factors can compromise accuracy, making ethical discipline and professional integrity essential.
“To uphold ethics, journalists must use data, provide context, and humanise stories. Reporting should reflect real experiences of workers, ensuring policies are understood and linked to national development goals,” he said.
He said national development depended on ethical journalism, adding that by strengthening democracy, building trust, informing citizens, and combating misinformation, the press become a vital force driving sustainable progress and unity.
The chairman of the occasion, Mr Emmanuel Maiguwa, President, Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria (MASPAN), urged the new executives to build on the achievements of its predecessors.
“MARAN have distinguished itself as a respected voice in the maritime industry through their professionalism, excellent and responsible reporting and I commend members for these values,” he said.
Earlier, the President of MARAN, Mr Oluyinka Onigbinde, expressed gratitude to God and members, pledging responsible leadership and dedication to advancing the association’s longstanding legacy.
Onigbinde described the inauguration as a new chapter, reaffirming MARAN’s historic role as a vital bridge between maritime stakeholders and the public, built on credibility and resilience.
Emphasising the theme of ethical journalism, he noted its importance in ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth within Nigeria’s strategic maritime sector.
The president outlined plans for capacity building, digital transformation, investigative reporting, and stronger partnerships, while maintaining independence and prioritising members’ welfare and professional development.
Calling for unity beyond elections, he urged collaboration among members and stakeholders, committing the administration to integrity, inclusiveness, and progress in strengthening maritime journalism and Nigeria’s blue economy.
F.O
Tags: journalists maritime