Stakeholders have called on journalists to ensure ethical reporting in the maritime sector, adding that its importance cannot be overemphasised.

These stakeholders stated this in Lagos during the inauguration of the new executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).

In his keynote address, a Public Relations expert and the Chief Executive Officer of Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola, explained that journalism is more than reporting events, adding that it is the backbone of accountability, public trust, and informed citizenship.

He added that in upholding ethical journalism, journalists must prioritise truth, fairness, and public interest over sensationalism, bias, or profit, stressing that unethical reporting damages maritime development faster.

He warned that false reports on port congestion, piracy or policy changes scare off shipping lines and investors, stressing that accurate, verified reporting builds investor confidence.

“In Nigeria and across Africa, where democracy is still maturing and misinformation spreads fast, ethical journalism directly impacts national development,” Abimbola said.
Abimbola, nevertheless, lamented that challenges such as restricted access to ports and ships affect maritime reporting, making reporters to rely on handouts.

Also speaking, the National President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Mr Tochukwu Ezisi, said emphasised the indispensable role of responsible journalism in shaping the trajectory of the maritime sector.

He said the sector remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic aspirations, adding that ethical journalism is not merely a professional obligation but a national imperative and vital instrument for maritime growth, policy refinement, and institutional credibility.

In his opening speech, the newly inaugurated President of MARAN, Oluyinka Onigbinde, described the maritime sector as one of the most strategic sectors of Nigeria’s economy.

“The maritime sector remains one of the most strategic sectors of Nigeria’s economy. It is the gateway to international trade, a major source of government revenue, and a critical driver of economic growth. But sustainable maritime development cannot thrive without credible information, transparency, and accountability,” Onigbinde said.

Onigbinde mentioned that the duty of maritime journalists goes beyond reporting events, as they are expected to inform, educate, investigate, analyse, and hold institutions accountable.