Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime industry have called on journalists to embrace ethical and responsible reporting, describing accurate and balanced coverage as essential to promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth in the sector.
The stakeholders made the call in Lagos during the inauguration of the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).
Delivering the keynote address at the event, public relations expert and Chief Executive Officer of Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola, said journalism goes beyond reporting events, noting that it plays a critical role in strengthening accountability, public confidence, and informed decision-making.
Abimbola urged maritime journalists to uphold the principles of truth, fairness, and public interest while avoiding sensationalism, bias, and inaccurate reporting.
He warned that unverified reports on sensitive issues such as port congestion, piracy, and government policies could negatively affect investor confidence and discourage shipping companies from operating in the country.
“In Nigeria and across Africa, where democracy is still developing and misinformation spreads quickly, ethical journalism has a direct impact on national development,” he said.
The public relations expert, however, highlighted some of the challenges facing maritime reporters, including limited access to ports and vessels, which often forces journalists to depend on official statements and third-party information.
Also speaking at the event, the National President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Tochukwu Ezisi, stressed the importance of responsible journalism in shaping the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Ezisi described the maritime industry as a key pillar of Nigeria’s economic development, adding that ethical reporting remained a vital tool for improving policies, strengthening institutions, and promoting confidence among stakeholders.
In his remarks, the newly inaugurated President of MARAN, Oluyinka Onigbinde, described the maritime sector as one of the most strategic components of the Nigerian economy.
He said the industry serves as a gateway to international trade, a major source of government revenue, and an important driver of economic growth.
According to Onigbinde, sustainable development in the maritime sector requires credible information, transparency, and accountability.
He noted that the responsibilities of maritime journalists extend beyond covering events, as they are expected to educate the public, conduct investigations, provide analysis, and hold relevant institutions accountable.
The stakeholders expressed optimism that improved collaboration between journalists and maritime industry players would contribute to better understanding, stronger policies, and increased investment in the sector.
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