The Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Prince Segun Oduntan, has pledged full support for the newly elected leadership of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN). He called on the association to uphold professionalism, ethical standards, and balanced reportage in the maritime sector.
Oduntan made the remarks on Wednesday while receiving MARAN President Oluyinka Onigbinde and members of his executive council during a courtesy visit.
He described the emergence of the new MARAN leadership as an opportunity to reposition the association and restore confidence in maritime journalism. Stressing the importance of integrity and unity, he urged the executive to resist sensationalism, blackmail, and unverified reports that could harm reputations and institutions.
“The credibility of journalism depends largely on the ability of practitioners to maintain ethical standards and resist external pressures capable of compromising their judgment,” Oduntan stated.
He lamented the decline of investigative and developmental journalism in the maritime sector, recalling a time when industry publications were respected for credible and impactful reporting. He encouraged MARAN members to rebuild that standard and change negative perceptions surrounding the profession.
Oduntan further advised the association to guard against internal divisions, noting that leadership requires patience, wisdom, and the ability to accommodate differing opinions. He cautioned journalists against being used as instruments for personal or political battles, insisting that responsible journalism must be guided by facts and objectivity.
Pledging ANLCA’s support, he assured MARAN of collaboration in efforts to reposition the association and strengthen ties between maritime journalists and industry stakeholders.
In response, MARAN President Oluyinka Onigbinde expressed gratitude for the encouragement and pledged that the new executive would prioritize ethical journalism, professionalism, and constructive engagement with stakeholders.
The courtesy visit formed part of MARAN’s ongoing outreach to key stakeholders aimed at advancing professionalism and industry collaboration in Nigeria’s maritime sector.