The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola and heads of key maritime agencies have indicated a strong interest in attending a landmark event aimed at celebrating media professionals in Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Also, some other industry heavyweights expected at the event are terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and other critical stakeholders.

The event, initiated by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, will also provide an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the media and industry operators at a time when the sector is undergoing significant reforms and modernisation efforts.

Its Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tunde Ayodele, noted that following weeks of intensive planning and stakeholder engagements, the association confirms that arrangements for the high-profile ceremony have reached an advanced stage, with overwhelming support and positive responses already recorded from key players across the maritime sector.

He noted that the reception will serve as a platform to reflect on the legacies of past presidents whose leadership helped position the association as a respected voice in the maritime space.

Also, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr Funso Olojo, notable dignitaries from government institutions, including the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, as well as heads of key maritime agencies, have indicated strong interest in attending the event.

Olojo, while giving an overview of the event, declared that it would serve as a veritable platform to celebrate the excellence, hard work, and quality leadership of MARAN’s past leaders.

He said: “MARAN, as the progenitor of beat associations in the maritime industry, has produced the finest individuals who have had the privilege of leading this great association. They have sacrificed their time, energy and intellect to make MARAN the greatest beat association in the maritime industry.

“More encouraging is the fact that all of these past leaders are currently doing well in their different endeavours.

” Some are excelling as Ministers of God in His vineyard, some are holding their own in the legal profession, some have become media moguls and employers of labour, while some are practising their crafts as political appointees.”