The communiqué issued at the end of the Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR), Akwa Ibom State Branch’s training workshop is more than a routine post-event declaration. It is a timely policy statement that deserves the attention of governments, security agencies, the oil and gas industry, media organisations and the public.
Nigeria’s maritime domain remains one of the country’s greatest economic assets. From offshore oil production to marine logistics, shipping and coastal trade, the sector sustains billions of naira in revenue, supports thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to national development. Yet, these enormous opportunities continue to be threatened by piracy, crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and other criminal activities that undermine investor confidence and national security.
The EMR workshop rightly identified maritime security as a national priority. Effective policing of Nigeria’s waterways cannot be left to a single institution. It demands stronger intelligence sharing, improved surveillance technology, adequate funding and seamless collaboration among the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, NIMASA, NSCDC, the Department of State Services and other relevant agencies. Protecting offshore installations is ultimately protecting Nigeria’s economy.
Equally commendable is the workshop’s emphasis on professional journalism. Reporting on energy and maritime activities requires specialised knowledge, technical understanding and adherence to the highest ethical standards. Journalists covering these sectors should be properly trained to report accurately, responsibly and without sensationalism. At the same time, they must maintain editorial independence while building constructive relationships with security agencies and industry operators.
The Evangelist also aligns with the call for greater investment in marine infrastructure and local content development. Akwa Ibom State possesses a strategic coastline and considerable offshore resources capable of transforming the state into a leading maritime logistics hub in West Africa.
Such potential can only be realised through deliberate government policies, private sector investment and meaningful participation of indigenous companies and host communities.
Safety must also remain paramount. Journalists assigned to offshore operations often work under hazardous conditions.
Media organisations have a responsibility to ensure their personnel receive appropriate safety training, protective equipment and operational support before embarking on such assignments. No story is worth a preventable loss of life.
The commendation extended to the organisers of the workshop reflects the growing recognition that capacity building is indispensable in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape. Continuous professional development equips journalists with the knowledge and confidence required to report complex sectors that directly affect national development.
The Evangelist believes that the recommendations contained in the communiqué should not be allowed to gather dust.
Governments must strengthen maritime security, industry operators should deepen corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship, while journalists must continue to uphold professionalism, accuracy, fairness and ethical responsibility.
Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors possess enormous potential to drive economic diversification and sustainable development. Unlocking that potential requires secure waterways, sound public policies, responsible corporate conduct and a professional press committed to informing the public without compromising national security.
That is the pathway to a stronger maritime economy and a more prosperous Nigeria.
® The Evangelist newspaper
