By Joy Enamuna
Top stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector, including a former Minister of Interior, Emmanuel Ihenacho, have confirmed participation in the forthcoming reception in honour of past presidents of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria.
Also billed to attend the high-profile event are the pioneer President of the Ship Owners Association of Nigeria, Greg Ogbeifun, and former National President of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, Olayiwola Shittu, among other industry players.
The reception, scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, is expected to attract a wide array of stakeholders, including government officials, regulators, shipping firms, terminal operators, freight forwarders, and corporate organisations.
MARAN, in a statement, said it had concluded arrangements for the event, describing it as a landmark initiative to celebrate the contributions of former leaders of the association.
The association noted that the ceremony would serve as a platform to recognise the legacies of its past presidents, whose leadership it said helped position MARAN as a leading voice in maritime journalism.
“Following weeks of intensive planning and stakeholder engagement, the association has finalised preparations for the reception, with overwhelming support from key players across the maritime industry,” the statement read.
It added that the event would bring together “industry heavyweights, policymakers, ministry officials, and other stakeholders to celebrate leadership, service, and the role of maritime journalism in shaping policy and promoting accountability.”
The statement, jointly signed by Chairman of MARAN Caretaker Committee, Tunde Ayodele, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Funsho Olojo, said the gathering would also strengthen collaboration between the media and maritime operators.
Ayodele was quoted as saying the reception would provide an opportunity to reflect on the association’s journey and reinforce its commitment to professional excellence.
“This event is not only about honouring past leaders but also about deepening collaboration between the media and industry stakeholders, especially at a time of ongoing reforms in the maritime sector,” he said.
On his part, Olojo described the level of support from stakeholders as a reflection of the importance of the event to the industry.
He said, “The willingness of stakeholders to participate underscores the significance of this gathering to the maritime community. It is a platform to celebrate excellence, dedication, and quality leadership.”
Olojo added that MARAN, as a pioneer beat association in the sector, had produced distinguished professionals who had continued to excel in various fields.
“Many of our past leaders have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective careers — from the legal profession to media ownership and public service. This event will showcase their achievements and celebrate their contributions,” he said.
The programme is expected to feature award presentations, goodwill messages, and networking sessions aimed at fostering stronger ties among stakeholders.
Founded 38 years ago, MARAN remains a leading association of journalists covering Nigeria’s maritime industry, with its International Press Centre located in Apapa, Lagos.