The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has praised Nigerian journalists, especially those covering the maritime sector, for their significant role in Nigeria’s recent success at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) elections.
Nigeria clinched the elusive Category C Council seat at the IMO after 14 years of unsuccessful attempts, a milestone that underscores the growing recognition of the country’s maritime capabilities on the global stage.
Receiving the leadership of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), led by Mr. Tunde Ayodele, at NIMASA headquarters, Edward Osagie, Deputy Director and Head of Public Relations, highlighted the complementary role of the media in projecting Nigeria’s maritime potential.
He noted that the persistent efforts of MARAN members have helped showcase Nigeria’s capacity in maritime administration, adding momentum to the country’s successful bid at the IMO.
“The international community pays attention to every report we produce as journalists. It shapes how they perceive our nation,” Osagie said, emphasizing the crucial role of developmental journalism in national growth.
He urged journalists to practice responsible reporting, warning against narratives that could demarket Nigeria or misrepresent its maritime industry.
Osagie specifically addressed misleading coverage regarding the detention of the vessel MT SKIPPER by the United States Coast Guard over alleged crude oil theft and other transnational crimes.
He clarified that the vessel was not flying the Nigerian flag, nor was it owned by Thomarose Global Ventures Limited, a company registered with NIMASA, stressing that a vessel’s identity is defined by the flag it flies.
“Those who attempted to ascribe the vessel’s ownership to Nigeria either acted out of mischief or ignorance,” he said, underlining the importance of accurate reporting in the maritime sector.
Despite occasional challenges, Osagie lauded MARAN for its responsible reporting and its support for NIMASA’s initiatives, even when the agency has fallen short of expectations.
“MARAN is a brand we are proud of, both within the agency and across the industry. Your commitment to balanced reporting has strengthened Nigeria’s maritime image globally,” he added.
The visit by MARAN’s leadership, including its caretaker committee, aimed to consolidate the long-standing partnership between the association and NIMASA, fostering closer collaboration and mutual understanding.
“I am delighted to host you today. This engagement reinforces the cordial relationship between our institutions and highlights the value we place on your contributions,” Osagie said.
The two parties engaged in open discussions focused on enhancing operational synergy, promoting shared values, and supporting initiatives that advance Nigeria’s maritime sector.
In response, Ayodele reaffirmed MARAN’s commitment to responsible journalism, pledging to continue producing reports that enhance NIMASA’s operations and boost Nigeria’s credibility in the global maritime arena.
Osagie concluded by pledging NIMASA’s unwavering support for MARAN and its caretaker committee, promising to strengthen professional integrity, facilitate impactful collaboration, and promote the welfare of maritime journalists across the country.
