The Guardian Maritime Reporter, Adaku Onyenucheya, has been honoured with the Seafarers Media Award by the Merchant Seafarers Association of Nigeria (MESAN).

The award, presented during the 2024 Sailors Night held in Apapa, at the weekend, recognised her exceptional contributions to maritime journalism, as well as her insightful reporting and unwavering dedication to highlighting the challenges and triumphs of seafarers in Nigeria.

Secretary-General of MESAN, Alfred Oniye, who spoke at the event, lauded Onyenucheya’s dedication to maritime journalism, describing the recognition as a reflection of her exceptional efforts in bringing seafarers’ stories to light.

“Adaku Onyenucheya’s work goes beyond mere reporting. It is a heartfelt advocacy for the rights and welfare of a critical yet often overlooked segment of the society,” Oniye stated.He said that Onyenucheya had amplified the voices of seafarers, drawing attention to their vital contributions to the economy and their role in global trade.

Oniye emphasised that her articles had provided a platform for the workers, spotlighting their struggles and successes while fostering a deeper understanding of the maritime industry’s significance in everyday life.

He said that the Seafarers Media Award is a testament to Onyenucheya’s unwavering pursuit of accurate and empathetic reporting, adding that her dedication continues to inspire change within the maritime sector, earning her widespread respect among peers and stakeholders.

Also speaking, the President of the Alumni Association of the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology (FCFMT) and the Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR), Captain Williams Ogunsakin, said Onyenucheya’s recognition stands as a beacon of excellence in maritime reporting and a call for continued support and awareness of the industry. He underscored the importance of journalism in advocating for the welfare of those navigating the nation’s waters.