Be Fearless in Defending Truth, Aniebonam Urges Maritime Journalists

Founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, has charged maritime journalists to remain courageous, objective, and unwavering in the pursuit of truth. He emphasized that sustainable reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector can only be achieved through responsible and fearless journalism.

Aniebonam made the call while receiving the newly elected Executive Council of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN), led by its President, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, during a courtesy visit to NAGAFF headquarters in Lagos.

According to him, the media occupies a strategic position in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance within the industry. He noted that factual and constructive reporting compels policymakers and regulators to confront pressing challenges.

“The media has a responsibility to continue highlighting realities within the sector. Constructive reporting draws attention to problems and encourages those in authority to take corrective action,” Aniebonam stated.

He stressed that meaningful development flourishes only where journalists uphold accuracy, fairness, integrity, and public interest. Reflecting on his decades of service, Aniebonam urged both journalists and industry practitioners to embrace humility, forgiveness, and mutual respect, cautioning against inflammatory remarks and unnecessary conflicts.

The NAGAFF founder also underscored the importance of mentoring younger professionals to bridge the generational gap in the industry, noting that succession planning and knowledge transfer are imperative as many veterans approach retirement.

MARAN President, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, expressed appreciation to NAGAFF for its longstanding support, describing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen ties. He explained that NAGAFF was deliberately chosen as the first point of call because of its strategic role in Nigeria’s maritime and freight forwarding industry.

Also speaking, NAGAFF National President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, congratulated the new MARAN leadership and urged them to uphold professionalism, discipline, and unity. He encouraged reconciliation among members following the elections, stressing patience and tolerance in handling criticism.

The MARAN leadership further visited NAGAFF National Coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko, who pledged continued support and urged journalists to remain transparent, balanced, and ethical in their reporting.

Meanwhile, MARAN will inaugurate its new Executive Council on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos. Themed “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development”, the event is expected to attract heads of maritime agencies, industry leaders, and key stakeholders.

The association said the new executive will prioritize professionalism, strengthen ethical journalism, and promote responsible reporting to advance transparency, accountability, and the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy.