Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The launch of the Centre for Maritime Media & Capacity Development took centre stage in Lagos on Tuesday as First Mediacon Network Limited marked the 10th anniversary of its Annual Seminar for Maritime Journalists, with speakers stressing the need to future-proof maritime reporting in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event held at the BWC Hotel, Victoria Island, the Chief Executive Officer of First Mediacon Network Limited, Mr. Sesan Onileimo, said the new Centre was created to respond to rapid changes reshaping journalism and the maritime sector.
“The maritime media space is evolving rapidly under the pressure of digitalisation, artificial intelligence and social media. This Centre is our bold response to ensure journalists remain knowledgeable, relevant and impactful, regardless of how long they have been on the beat,” Onileimo said.
He explained that the Centre would not only take over the organisation of the annual seminar but would also deliver continuous, year-round manpower development programmes for maritime journalists and content creators.
“What we are doing is moving from an annual event to a permanent structure for capacity development. The Centre is also open to partnerships with industry stakeholders who share our vision of a stronger and more professional maritime media,” he added.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Mr. Pius Akutah, described the 10th anniversary as a milestone for both maritime journalism and the Nigerian maritime industry.
“A strong maritime sector cannot thrive without a knowledgeable, ethical and responsible media. The quality of reporting directly affects investor confidence, policy direction and public trust,” Akutah said.
He urged journalists covering the sector to deepen their expertise, embrace digital tools and uphold accuracy and integrity in their reports.
“Misinformation in the maritime space can undermine economic stability and distort policy outcomes. This is why continuous learning and professionalism in maritime journalism are not optional but essential,” he stated.
Akutah reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to working closely with the media, describing maritime journalists as key partners in promoting transparency, efficiency and competitiveness within Nigeria’s ports and shipping industry.
The seminar also featured technical sessions for journalists on emerging sector reforms, including the National Single Window project scheduled to commence operations in the first quarter of 2026.
Participants at the event called on other maritime agencies and industry players to emulate the capacity-building initiatives of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and the Nigeria Customs Service to further strengthen the credibility and depth of maritime reporting in Nigeria.