SIFAX Group has congratulated Oluyinka Onigbinde following his election as President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, saying his victory reflects years of dedication and professionalism in maritime journalism.

In a statement released in Lagos on Friday, the company described Onigbinde’s emergence as a positive development for Nigeria’s maritime media landscape and the wider shipping industry.

The congratulatory message was signed by Taiwo Afolabi on behalf of the company’s board, management, and staff.

Afolabi said Onigbinde’s election was “well-deserved” because of his long-standing contributions to journalism within the maritime sector.

“Your emergence as the President is proof of your professionalism, dedication, and consistent contributions to maritime journalism and the broader maritime industry over the years,” Afolabi said.

Why the Appointment Matters

MARAN is one of Nigeria’s leading associations for journalists covering ports, shipping, logistics, and maritime policy.

Industry observers say the association plays an important role in shaping conversations around port reforms, cargo operations, shipping regulation, and the broader blue economy.

Analysts note that strong maritime journalism is increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to improve trade efficiency, modernise its ports, and attract investment into the sector.

Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, maritime activities have remained central to discussions around economic diversification, non-oil exports, and regional trade competitiveness.

Experts say media organisations and industry reporters are expected to play a bigger role in holding stakeholders accountable while educating the public on policy developments affecting importers, exporters, freight operators, and consumers.

SIFAX Sees Stronger Industry Engagement Ahead

Afolabi expressed confidence that MARAN would continue promoting ethical journalism, professionalism, and unity within the industry under Onigbinde’s leadership.

“The association will continue to advance the ideals of professionalism, ethical journalism, unity, and constructive engagement within the maritime sector,” he stated.

He also said the new leadership could strengthen collaboration between journalists and maritime stakeholders.

According to him, the media remains a critical partner in supporting the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

As Patron of MARAN, Afolabi pledged support for the association and wished the new president success in office.

“We wish you wisdom, strength, and outstanding success in the discharge of your duties,” he added.

Industry Reactions

Maritime stakeholders say leadership changes within sector-focused media associations often influence how industry reforms and government policies are communicated to the public.

Some analysts believe MARAN’s new leadership may focus on deeper investigative reporting, improved engagement with regulators, and stronger advocacy for transparency in Nigeria’s port system.

Shipping operators and logistics professionals have also increasingly called for more data-driven reporting on issues such as cargo clearance delays, port congestion, customs procedures, and infrastructure deficits.

About MARAN

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria is the umbrella body for journalists covering Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The association has historically played a major role in public discourse surrounding port operations, shipping activities, maritime regulation, and industry reforms.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos State chapter, has named Abigail Ndisika Ogwezzy as its Iconic Woman of the Month for April 2026, citing her contributions to media education and national development.

The honour forms part of the association’s monthly initiative recognising women in Lagos who demonstrate leadership, professional excellence and societal impact.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the growing role of women in shaping Nigeria’s media landscape, particularly through education and mentorship.

It also underscores the importance of academic leadership in strengthening journalism standards at a time when misinformation and digital disruption continue to challenge the industry.

Recognising impact in media education

Prof. Ogwezzy, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, was selected for her influence on generations of students and media professionals.

Her work spans teaching, research and public engagement, with a focus on advancing communication scholarship in Nigeria.

NAWOJ says her career has contributed to improving media professionalism and encouraging ethical standards among emerging journalists.

What NAWOJ said

NAWOJ Lagos Chairperson, Jumoke Johnson, praised Prof. Ogwezzy’s contributions:

“Her commitment to academic excellence, public engagement, and advocacy has not only strengthened the field of communication but also contributed meaningfully to national discourse and societal advancement.”

She added:

“Her role in mentoring young professionals and empowering women within the media space further underscores her suitability for the honour.”

Industry and public perspective

Media analysts say recognitions like this help elevate role models within journalism and academia.

They also point to the need for stronger collaboration between universities and media organisations to prepare students for a rapidly evolving digital news environment.

For young journalists, particularly women, such recognition offers visibility and inspiration in a competitive industry.

What’s next

NAWOJ Lagos says it will continue its monthly recognition programme to spotlight women making meaningful contributions across sectors.

The association also plans to expand initiatives aimed at professional development and gender inclusion in Nigeria’s media industry.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has received a Fellowship Award from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and announced plans to build a modern multimedia centre for the institution.

The award was presented during a special convocation ceremony on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.

Why It Matters

The recognition highlights the growing link between public service leadership and journalism training in Nigeria.

It also signals potential investment in media education, at a time when digital and multimedia skills are increasingly essential in newsrooms.

Adeniyi Reflects on His Journey

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi described the honour as both personal and professional.

“This institution planted in me a set of values that I did not fully understand at the time, but have lived by ever since: professionalism as a standard, not a performance; discipline as a habit, not an event; and continuous self-development as a personal obligation,” he said.

He added that the award reflects not just his career, but the broader work of the Customs Service.

“While we render service to our country, some people somewhere are watching and our day of rewards can actually come like this.”

Multimedia Centre Plan Announced

Dr Adeniyi also pledged to support the development of a new multimedia and resource centre at the institute.

“We would be working with the school after the conduct of needs assessment to put up a building, a two-storey building that would be a multimedia and resource centre,” he said.

“We’ll be having a radio station, editing suites, production suites… a place where they can integrate audio, video, animation, text, images, and all of that.”

The project is expected to strengthen practical training for journalism students and align the institute with global media standards.

Institutional and Government Backing

The Chairman of the Governing Council, Olusegun Osoba, described the moment as historic.

He revealed that the conferment had the approval of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“He graduated from here and has been a shining example of an ex-student of this institute in his area of endeavour,” Mr Osoba said.

He added that Adeniyi is the first alumnus to receive the fellowship.

Academic Perspective

The Provost of the institute, Gbenga Adefaye, said the award reflects the institution’s enduring values.

He noted that Dr Adeniyi’s career demonstrates how journalism training can translate into leadership across sectors.

Industry Perspective

Media analysts say investments like this could help bridge the gap between classroom learning and newsroom realities.

With digital storytelling, podcasting, and multimedia reporting on the rise, institutions without modern facilities risk falling behind.

What’s Next

The Customs chief said the project would begin after a needs assessment with the institute.

If implemented, the centre could become one of Nigeria’s most advanced journalism training facilities.