Maritime
THE Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has urged maritime journalists to uphold ethical standards and strengthen collaboration with industry stakeholders to drive the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.
The call was made in Lagos when the newly-elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) paid a courtesy visit to the agency’s headquarters.
Receiving the delegation, the Deputy Director, Public Relations, NIMASA, Mr Osagie Edward, emphasised the need for constructive and balanced reportage in promoting the nation’s maritime potential.
Edward noted that the media played a strategic role in projecting opportunities within the blue economy and attracting both local and foreign investments.
“The Nigerian blue economy presents enormous opportunities. If properly projected and branded, it will attract global attention and investors, ultimately benefiting the country,” he said.
He congratulated the new MARAN executives on their election, describing it as a reflection of the confidence reposed in them by members of the association.
Edward also acknowledged the longstanding relationship between NIMASA and MARAN, noting that the association had remained a key stakeholder in the development of the maritime sector for over two decades.
According to him, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola, is committed to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation globally.
He assured the association of the agency’s readiness to sustain collaboration with maritime journalists, particularly in the areas of information dissemination and professional development.
On capacity building, Edward said NIMASA was already engaging relevant stakeholders to provide more training opportunities for journalists covering the maritime sector.
“Capacity building is very dear to the management of NIMASA. We will continue to engage because informed and constructive reporting is beneficial to the industry,” he said.
Earlier, the President of MARAN, Mr Oluyinka Onigbinde, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the association and NIMASA, while seeking deeper collaboration in advancing the maritime sector through responsible journalism.
He stressed the need for structured training programmes to enhance journalists’ understanding of industry issues and improve the quality of reportage.
The MARAN president also conveyed the association’s condolences to NIMASA over the death of a staff member, Ms Ifenyinwa Okonkwo, who reportedly passed away over the weekend.
He expressed sympathy with the management and staff of the agency and prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul, as well as strength for her family and colleagues.
Also speaking, Assistant Director, Public Relations, Mr Daniel Kajo, urged maritime journalists to remain committed to professionalism, ethical standards and balanced reporting.
Kajo emphasised the importance of constructive criticism, noting that the media remained an indispensable partner in the development of the maritime sector.
The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to enhanced collaboration in information sharing, capacity building and the promotion of Nigeria’s blue economy.
F.O
Tags: Blue Economy growth Ethical Reporting NIMASA Stronger media ties