MARAN President Pledges Ethical Journalism for Maritime Growth
MARAN President Pledges Ethical Journalism for Maritime Growth
The Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has inaugurated its new Executive Council with a resounding call to uphold ethical journalism as a cornerstone for sustainable maritime development.
Speaking at the ceremony in Lagos, MARAN President Oluyinka Onigbinde thanked members for their trust, stressing that the association’s legacy as the conscience of the maritime industry must be protected.
“The maritime sector is strategic to Nigeria’s economy, but sustainable growth cannot thrive without credible information, transparency and accountability. This is where ethical journalism becomes indispensable,” Onigbinde said.
He outlined his vision for a stronger, united MARAN, with priorities including capacity building, digital transformation, investigative reporting, and policy-driven analysis. He pledged to foster partnerships with government agencies, international organisations, and private stakeholders while maintaining editorial independence.
Declaring an end to divisions, Onigbinde affirmed: “The elections are behind us. There are no longer camps or factions. There is only one MARAN.”
Public affairs expert and keynote speaker at the inauguration of the new executive, Mr. Abimbola Bolaji, has stressed that ethical journalism is indispensable to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry and the nation’s growth.
Bolaji who spoke on the topic, “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development,” described journalism as the backbone of accountability, public trust and informed citizenship, warning that the erosion of ethical standards in the media could undermine democratic governance and economic progress.
He declared that ethical journalism requires strict adherence to the principles of truth, accuracy, independence, fairness, accountability, and humanity.
High Chief Emmanuel Tochukwu Ezisi, President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), described ethical journalism as a stabilizing force that ensures transparency in port operations, accountability among institutions, and investor confidence.
Former MARAN President Sesan Onileimo commended the association’s relevance in maritime growth, urging members to remain productive, noting that “productivity leads to visibility, and visibility to recognition.”
Onigbinde assured stakeholders that MARAN would continue to engage constructively, commend achievements where deserved, and offer professional criticism when necessary. He dedicated his administration to service, accountability, inclusiveness, and progress, urging members to recommit to the founding ideals of integrity, professionalism, courage, and excellence.
“Together, let us elevate maritime journalism and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s blue economy,” he concluded.
