The General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communication of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr. Ikechukwu Onyeamakara, has called on maritime journalists to adopt developmental reporting that will positively project the sector internationally.
Onyeamakara made the appeal in Lagos while receiving members of the Caretaker Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).
He reminded journalists of the ethics of balance, accuracy and factual reporting, stressing that “nothing good comes from negative reports.”
He urged reporters to focus on constructive coverage, especially as Nigeria prepares for its bid to return to Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
According to him, positive and responsible reporting will boost Nigeria’s image and attract support from maritime nations.
The NPA spokesperson noted that journalists in other countries avoid projecting damaging narratives about their nations and encouraged Nigerian reporters to adopt a similar approach.
He also praised MARAN as the foremost maritime reporters’ group with a long-standing reputation in the industry.
Responding, MARAN Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mr. Ayodele, thanked the NPA for the warm reception and pledged the association’s continued support in helping the Authority reposition the maritime sector.
Reporting by John Obot