Akutah to maritime journalists: Nigerian Shippers’ Council has benefitted from your professionalism
The Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, has recognised the contributions of maritime journalists to the growth of the nation’s maritime industry, particularly the Council.
Barrister Pius Akutah stated this at the 10th anniversary of annual seminar for maritime journalists in Lagos on Wednesday, December 17, saying the theme of the anniversary “A Decade of Collaboration for Impact: Strengthening Maritime Journalism for the Future”, reflected the essential role of partnership in building a stronger maritime industry.
Akutah said “Over the years, maritime journalists have worked closely with regulators, operators, policymakers, and stakeholders to illuminate the challenges and opportunities of the sector. Your work has contributed to greater transparency, improved public understanding, and stronger accountability within our maritime landscape.
“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, in particular, under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has benefitted from your professionalism and sustained coverage of our regulatory interventions, reforms, and collaborative efforts to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the port environment.
“This decade-long journey affirms a simple truth: no maritime sector can advance without a strong, knowledgeable, and committed media community.
“As the maritime sector grows more complex; driven by digitalization, new trade realities, regulatory reforms, and global logistical shifts, journalism within this space must evolve accordingly.”
Strengthening maritime journalism for the future, he said, requires the following:
Deeper sectorial knowledge which maritime reporting must be anchored in technical accuracy, understanding of global practices, and an appreciation of regulatory frameworks.
Digital Preparedness for the future journalist to be equipped to interrogate data, utilize digital tools, and apply emerging technologies such as Al in research, storytelling, and analysis.
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Ethical Excellence: Accuracy, balance, and integrity are indispensable. Misinformation in a sensitive sector like maritime can undermine policy, investor confidence, and national economic stability and lastly, Sustained Collaboration with Regulators.
Commending the management of First Mediacon Limited, the organisers of the semina, Akutah said “At the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, we remain committed to open communication and structured engagement with the media to enhance mutual understanding and sectoral development.
“We look forward to partnering with you through knowledge-sharing, capacity-building collaborations, and joint initiatives that support a more informed and capable maritime media landscape.
“As the Port Economic Regulator, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains committed to promoting efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within the maritime sector.
“We consider the media as essential partners in informing stakeholders, shaping public understanding, and strengthening accountability.
“We will continue to support credible and responsible maritime journalism and are open to meaningful engagements that enhance professionalism and knowledge within the press community.
“As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, let us recommit ourselves to building a stronger future, one defined by accurate information, robust collaboration, and shared progress.
“A vibrant maritime sector requires a vibrant media, and together, we can shape a future that is more transparent, more efficient, and more globally competitive.”
