Joyce Mmereole Okoli
Lagos will host key maritime regulators, trade operators and journalists on December 17, 2025, as the 10th Anniversary Annual Seminar for Maritime Journalists convenes to advance discussions on digital trade facilitation, regulatory efficiency and Nigeria’s ongoing maritime sector reforms.
Now in its tenth year, the forum has evolved into a notable business intelligence platform, equipping maritime journalists with the analytical skills needed to interpret policy actions, market trends and operational developments across the nation’s blue economy.
Its impact has been widely felt in strengthening the information value chain that guides investments in ports, shipping, logistics and inland trade corridors.
This year’s edition is particularly significant, coming at a time when Nigeria is accelerating digitalisation efforts, restructuring its regulatory framework and pushing for deeper transparency in maritime operations.
A major highlight of the seminar is a Business Dialogue on the National Single Window, to be led by the platform’s Director, Mr. Tola Fakolade. The session will unpack the commercial and competitiveness benefits of the system, while underscoring the media’s critical role in helping businesses understand its value.
Participants will also benefit from a hands-on session on “Data Analysis for Effective Maritime Reporting”, facilitated by the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Abdullahi Maiwada.
The training will enhance journalists’ ability to interpret trade statistics, cargo flows, revenue patterns and other operational indicators that drive accurate maritime and logistics reporting.
The keynote address will be delivered by the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima, who will speak on regulatory efficiency, investment protection and the media’s role in fostering a transparent business environment.
The Chairman of the Occasion, Mr. Warredi Eniosuoh, brings deep private-sector and regulatory experience, aligning with industry aspirations for safer waterways, smoother port operations and reduced logistics costs.
Adding weight to the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, will attend as Special Guest of Honour, reflecting the seminar’s relevance to ongoing customs modernisation, automation efforts and government plans to lower the cost and time of doing business at the ports.
Speaking ahead of the event, convener and CEO of First Mediacon Network Limited, Mr. Sesan Onileimo, said the past decade has demonstrated that data-driven journalism remains crucial to maritime sector growth.
“This platform empowers journalists with the tools to properly analyse reforms, interrogate investments and provide the business community with credible information,” he noted.
As the seminar marks a decade of consistent contribution to maritime knowledge and capacity building, organisers reaffirm their commitment to strengthening professional standards in maritime reporting and promoting a more transparent, efficient and investor-friendly sector.