Onigbinde: ‘We will Build MARAN into a Formidable, Professionally Relevant Association’
‘Nifemi Coker
At the inauguration of the newly elected executive committee of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) in Lagos on Tuesday, incoming president, Oluyinka Onigbinde, pledged to transform the body into a stronger, more united and professionally relevant association.
In his welcome address, Onigbinde said MARAN will prioritise capacity building, digital transformation and continuous professional development to help members report an increasingly complex maritime sector.
“We will build a MARAN that protects members’ welfare and creates opportunities for professional growth,” he said. “Most importantly, I envision a united association. The elections are behind us. There are no longer camps or factions—there is only one MARAN. The mandate entrusted to this executive belongs to every member, whether you supported us or not. Today we are one family pursuing one vision.”
Onigbinde pledged to work with his executive to promote investigative journalism, policy-based reporting and data-driven analysis. He also promised to strengthen partnerships with government agencies, international organisations and private stakeholders while safeguarding the association’s editorial independence.
Addressing regulators and industry players at the event, he said: “We appreciate your continued partnership with MARAN. Under this administration, we will continue to engage constructively, report responsibly and provide balanced coverage that supports the sector’s growth. Where praise is due we will commend; where criticism is necessary we will offer it professionally and fairly. Our commitment is to the truth and the national interest.”
Speaking on the inauguration theme, “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development,” Onigbinde stressed the central role of credible reporting in the country’s blue economy.
“The maritime sector is Nigeria’s gateway to international trade, a major source of government revenue and a driver of economic growth. Sustainable maritime development cannot thrive without transparency, accountability and credible information. Ethical journalism is indispensable.”
He called on members to resist sensationalism and misinformation, and to ensure every story is guided by fairness, balance and professionalism. “Our credibility is our greatest asset. When the public trusts maritime journalists, policymakers listen and investors follow. Ethical journalism is not just a duty, it is a catalyst for maritime development,” he said.
Onigbinde urged a recommitment to the association’s founding ideals of integrity, professionalism, courage and excellence, and dedicated his administration to “service, accountability, inclusiveness and progress.”
“Let us elevate maritime journalism and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigeria’s blue economy. May history remember this administration as one that united MARAN, strengthened the profession and advanced the maritime industry,” Onigbinde added.
Nautical Naija reports that Onigbide recently received the Maritime Reporter of the Year Award at the 12th Nigerian Transport Lecture and Awards organised by Transport Day Media.
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