By Omenihu Alfred Fibmn
The Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) has pledged continual support towards Nigerian Ports Authority’s efforts in advancing port modernisation and promoting responsible maritime journalism aimed at accelerating the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector. This assurance was re-affirmed during a courtesy visit by the leadership of CONMMEP to the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of the NPA, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara, at NPA headquarters in Lagos recently.
It is no longer news that Nigeria’s maritime sector is undergoing a sweeping $1 billion modernization drive spearheaded by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to tackle chronic congestion, reduce logistics costs, and boost non-oil exports. The sweeping reforms are anchored by massive infrastructural reconstruction and comprehensive digital automation under the National Single Window.
Speaking during the visit, the President of CONMMEP Mr. Udo Onyeka, commended the NPA for its sustained commitment to reforming the nation’s port industry through digital innovation, infrastructure development and operational improvements.
Onyeka observed that the Authority’s ongoing reforms, including its digital initiatives and investments in port infrastructure, have continued to yield positive results, citing the growing recognition of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in recent global port performance rankings. during a courtesy visit by the leadership of CONMMEP to the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of the NPA, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara, at the Authori
Onyeka reaffirmed the association’s readiness to partner with the NPA in promoting accurate, balanced and developmental reporting that would enhance public understanding of ongoing reforms and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He noted that, the media has a strategic role to play in educating stakeholders and the public on policies that will improve efficiency, transparency and competitiveness across the nation’s ports.
Reacting to the visit, the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of the NPA, Mr. Ikechukwu Onyemekara, appreciated CONMMEP for its professionalism and continued support for the maritime sector.
He described maritime journalists as indispensable partners in communicating the Authority’s reform agenda and assured the association of sustained access to information and regular engagement as the NPA intensifies efforts to modernise Nigeria’s ports.
Onyemekara also disclosed that the Authority is developing a comprehensive media engagement strategy to ensure stakeholders are adequately informed before, during and after the implementation of the Federal Government’s port modernisation programme.
He stressed that stronger collaboration between the NPA and the media would help deepen public understanding of ongoing reforms while supporting the development of a more efficient, competitive and globally attractive port system.
The visit further reinforced the long-standing relationship between the NPA and CONMMEP, with both organisations expressing their commitment to working together to advance Nigeria’s maritime industry through professionalism, transparency and effective public communication.
