By Solomon OKPO
The Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMRN), Akwa Ibom State Branch, has called for stronger maritime security, sustained capacity building for journalists and increased investment in marine infrastructure to enhance the growth of Nigeria’s energy and maritime sectors.
The call formed part of a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s One-Day Training Workshop held on Friday June 26, at Plot 51 G-Line, Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo, with the theme: “Understanding the Operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Their Marine Logistics Services Companies in Akwa Ibom State Waterways.”
The workshop, which attracted journalists, media practitioners, security experts and industry stakeholders, was organised to strengthen the capacity of reporters covering the energy and maritime sectors.
Participants received presentations from Mr. Sunny Udom on the operations of International Oil Companies and marine logistics services, while DCP Joseph A. Udoh (Rtd.) delivered a lecture on marine logistics operations, maritime security in Akwa Ibom waterways and safety measures for journalists reporting the sector.
The communiqué observed that International Oil Companies remain major contributors to Nigeria’s economy through investment, employment creation and revenue generation, while marine logistics serves as the backbone of offshore oil and gas operations by facilitating the movement of personnel, equipment and essential supplies.
Participants also noted that Akwa Ibom State possesses significant comparative advantages, including its strategic coastline and offshore assets, positioning it to emerge as a leading marine logistics and energy services hub in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
The workshop further acknowledged the positive impact of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act in expanding indigenous participation and creating opportunities for local businesses and skilled professionals.
However, participants expressed concern over persistent security challenges such as piracy, crude oil theft, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and smuggling, describing them as major threats to sustainable offshore operations and national assets.
The communiqué stressed that accurate, balanced and ethical journalism remains essential for promoting transparency, accountability, investor confidence and public understanding of developments within the energy and maritime industries.
It also emphasised that journalists covering offshore activities operate in high-risk environments and should prioritise personal safety by obtaining the necessary authorisations, conducting risk assessments, using appropriate personal protective equipment and complying strictly with established safety protocols.
Among its resolutions, the workshop urged EMRN to sustain regular training programmes to enhance members’ professional competence and called on governments at all levels to invest in marine infrastructure and formulate policies that encourage indigenous participation, employment generation and private sector investment.
Participants further appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen maritime security through enhanced collaboration among the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, NIMASA, NSCDC, DSS, NPA and other relevant agencies, while urging International Oil Companies and marine logistics service providers to deepen engagement with host communities and promote environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility.
The workshop also advised journalists to maintain professional relationships with security agencies without compromising editorial independence and to refrain from publishing sensitive operational information capable of undermining national security or ongoing security operations.
Participants commended the Executive Committee of EMRN, Akwa Ibom State Branch, led by Comrade Harrison Ndifreke, for organising what they described as a timely and impactful training programme. They also appreciated the resource persons for their practical presentations and valuable contributions to improving professional competence among energy and maritime reporters.
The workshop ended with a renewed commitment by participants to uphold professionalism, ethical journalism, safety consciousness and responsible reporting in support of sustainable development, enhanced security and economic prosperity in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The communiqué was signed by Comrade Solomon OKPO, Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee; Comrade Uyime Ekwere and Comrade Iniabasi Umo, members of the committee; alongside Comrade Harrison Ndifreke, Chairman of EMRN, Akwa Ibom State Branch, and Comrade Mabel Ekanem, Secretary of the branch
ADVERTISMENT
