The General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Ikechukwu Onyeamakara, has called on maritime journalists to embrace responsible and developmental journalism that will enhance Nigeria’s image in the global maritime community.
Mr. Onyeamakara made this appeal while receiving the three-man Caretaker Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), led by Chairman Tunde Ayodele, during a courtesy visit to the NPA headquarters in Lagos.
Highlighting the importance of ethical journalism grounded in balance, accuracy, and factual reporting, Onyeamakara emphasized that negative portrayals of the maritime sector do not serve the national interest. He urged journalists to focus on stories that promote growth and progress, especially as Nigeria prepares for elections into the Category C seat of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
“In other countries, journalists highlight the strengths of their maritime sectors despite facing similar challenges. We must adopt the same mindset to attract international support and investment,” he stated.
He commended MARAN as the pioneer and most enduring association of maritime reporters in Nigeria, acknowledging its legacy and influence in the industry. Onyeamakara also expressed support for a unified body of maritime journalists and emphasized the critical role of the media in advancing the objectives of the newly established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
On leadership within MARAN, he advised the committee to ensure that credible and visionary individuals emerge in the forthcoming elections, warning that poor leadership could undermine the association’s legacy.
In response, MARAN Caretaker Chairman Tunde Ayodele expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the NPA’s mission through constructive and developmental journalism.
He stressed that MARAN remains committed to fostering a vibrant maritime sector through responsible reporting and strategic partnerships with stakeholders.
He also extended an invitation to the NPA to attend MARAN’s upcoming Book Launch scheduled for December 4, 2025, in Lagos—a gesture that was warmly received by Onyeamakara, who assured that the NPA would be well represented.