EMR trains journalists on energy, maritime reporting

Etim Ekpimah

The Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR), Akwa Ibom State Branch, has called for stronger maritime security, sustained capacity building for journalists and increased investment in marine infrastructure to support the growth of Nigeria’s energy and maritime sectors.

The resolutions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s one-day training workshop held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Plot 51 G-Line, Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo.

The workshop, themed “Understanding the Operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Their Marine Logistics Service Companies in Akwa Ibom State Waterways,” brought together journalists, media practitioners, security experts and industry stakeholders to deepen participants’ understanding of the operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs), marine logistics services and maritime security.

Participants received lectures from Mr Sunny Udom on the operations of International Oil Companies and marine logistics service providers, while retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Joseph A. Udoh, psc, delivered presentations on marine logistics operations, security in Akwa Ibom waterways and safety measures for journalists covering the sector.

Following extensive deliberations, participants observed that International Oil Companies remain critical contributors to Nigeria’s economy through investment, employment generation and revenue creation.

They also noted that marine logistics is the backbone of offshore oil and gas operations, facilitating the movement of personnel, equipment and essential supplies to offshore installations.

The workshop further observed that Akwa Ibom possesses significant comparative advantages, including its strategic coastline and offshore assets, positioning the state to become a leading marine logistics and energy services hub in Nigeria and across West Africa.

Participants acknowledged that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act has significantly increased indigenous participation in the sector while creating opportunities for local businesses and skilled professionals.

They, however, expressed concern that piracy, crude oil theft, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, smuggling and other maritime crimes continue to threaten offshore operations and national economic assets, stressing that effective security remains indispensable to the sustainable development of the industry.

The workshop also emphasised that accurate, balanced and ethical journalism is essential for promoting transparency, accountability, investor confidence and public understanding of developments in the energy and maritime sectors.

Participants noted that journalists covering offshore operations often work in high-risk environments and should prioritise personal safety by obtaining the necessary authorisations and complying strictly with established safety and security protocols.

They further stressed that environmental sustainability, pollution prevention, effective oil spill response and meaningful engagement with host communities remain fundamental responsibilities of operators in the oil and gas industry.

To address these challenges, the workshop resolved that journalists covering the energy and maritime sectors should continually improve their professional knowledge to enhance the quality, accuracy and depth of their reporting.

It also resolved that the EMR should sustain regular capacity-building programmes to keep members abreast of emerging developments in the energy and maritime industries.

Participants urged the government to strengthen maritime security through improved collaboration among the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and other relevant agencies.

The workshop further called on International Oil Companies and marine logistics service providers to deepen engagement with host communities while promoting environmental sustainability and implementing meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

It also urged governments at all levels to invest in marine infrastructure and implement policies that encourage indigenous participation, create employment opportunities and attract private sector investment.

Participants advised journalists to maintain cordial professional relationships with security agencies without compromising editorial independence or ethical standards.

They also cautioned media practitioners against publishing sensitive operational information capable of jeopardising national security or ongoing security operations.

The workshop further resolved that journalists covering offshore activities should conduct comprehensive risk assessments, use appropriate personal protective equipment, verify access permissions and comply with all maritime safety procedures before embarking on assignments.

Participants commended the executive of the EMR, 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 invaluable contributions to strengthening the professional competence of energy and maritime journalists.

The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment by participants to uphold professionalism, ethical journalism, safety consciousness and responsible reporting in support of sustainable development, improved maritime security and Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

The communiqué was signed by Comrade Solomon Okpo, Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee; Comrade Iniabasi Umo, Secretary; Comrade Uyime Ekwere, Member; Comrade Harrison Ndifreke, Chairman of the EMR Akwa Ibom State Branch; and Comrade Mabel Ekanem, Secretary of the EMR Akwa Ibom State Branch.