BY SOLOMON OKPO
The Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR) has concluded plans to inaugurate its Akwa Ibom State branch following its maiden meeting held Friday night in Uyo.
The forum said the new branch would serve as a platform for professional and investigative journalism aimed at promoting transparency, sustainable development and stakeholder engagement within Nigeria’s energy and maritime sectors.
In a statement electronically signed by the National Chairman of EMR, Martins Giadom, the group reaffirmed its commitment to responsible reportage and public enlightenment on critical issues affecting the oil and gas, blue economy, maritime and energy industries.
The meeting, moderated by Giadom, resolved that members would prioritise solution-driven journalism capable of increasing public awareness and stimulating constructive discourse around the sectors.
According to the communiqué, the forum would also focus attention on issues bordering on accountability, environmental sustainability, safety standards, inclusive economic growth and the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business policy.
The group further agreed to strengthen collaboration with key industry stakeholders, including International Oil Companies (IOCs), host communities, labour unions, government agencies and development partners.
Among the major stakeholders identified for strategic engagement were Eastern Ports, terminal operators, Seplat Energy, Mobil, Agip, Renaissance, HYPREP, OGFZA, the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, as well as public-private initiatives such as Indorama and Nigeria LNG.
The forum also resolved to advocate greater media participation in policy dialogues, conferences and industry engagements within the energy and maritime sectors.
It further announced plans to organise regular training programmes for members to improve digital, technical and investigative reporting skills while maintaining ethical standards, professionalism and fact-checking across its chapters nationwide.
Members additionally called on organisers of energy and maritime-related events in Akwa Ibom and across the Niger Delta to involve journalists operating within the maritime and energy beats to enhance community-based reporting and regional development.
The meeting ended with a pledge by the forum to uphold responsible journalism and contribute meaningfully to the growth, competitiveness and socio-economic advancement of Nigeria’s energy and maritime industries.
