Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, has pledged his support for the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) and its leadership under President Godfrey Bivbere. He also commended the association for its responsible coverage of maritime affairs and the command’s activities.
CP Maikaba made these remarks on Thursday when he received MARAN executives at the Command Headquarters in Apapa, Lagos. The visit was part of the association’s efforts to strengthen ties with the police command and reinforce its commitment to accurate and balanced reportage.
Speaking during the meeting, CP Maikaba acknowledged his personal connection to journalism, revealing that he comes from a family with a strong media background.
“I have a brother who was an editor at Daily Times back then, so I can say journalism runs in my family. I appreciate the work you do and encourage you to continue projecting our efforts transparently,” he said.
He further assured MARAN of the command’s openness to engagement, stating, “Whenever we need you to help report our works, we will not hesitate to reach out.”
Responding, MARAN President Godfrey Bivbere reaffirmed the association’s commitment to providing broad coverage of the command’s achievements.
He highlighted the critical role of the police in securing the nation’s ports, which serve as vital gateways for international trade and foreign exchange earnings.
CP Maikaba expressed gratitude for the association’s visit and pledged to maintain a cordial working relationship with MARAN, emphasizing the importance of media-police collaboration in ensuring security and transparency in the maritime sector.