IMION, Nigerian Navy Empower Maritime Journalists with Groundbreaking Blue Economy Training

... As MARAN President Appreciates IMION, Navy For The Opportunity 

By Ewrhujakpor Godfrey Bivbere 

Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria — July 30, 2025: In a landmark move to bridge the gap between maritime policy and media reporting, the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria, IMION kicked off its Executive Course on the Blue Economy for Media Practitioners, drawing journalists, naval personnel, and industry leaders into a dynamic learning forum.

The event, hosted at IMION’s Centre of Excellence, opened with visionary remarks from Rear Admiral TC Udofia (Rtd), Director General of IMION. “Journalists aren’t just witnesses,” he said. “They are change agents who can shape public understanding and influence policy through compelling, responsible reporting.”

Group photography by participants.

Designed to deepen journalists' engagement with ocean-related issues, the course explores critical areas such as marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, blue energy, and maritime governance. The goal: to foster more informed journalism that drives environmental stewardship and national development.

A highlight of the gathering was a Goodwill Message delivered on behalf of the maritime journalism community by Godfrey Bivbere, President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, who said:

“On behalf of the maritime journalism community, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria for the impactful training and capacity-building initiative extended to journalists. This gesture not only enhances our professional understanding of the maritime sector but also fosters a stronger bond between the media and key stakeholders, particularly the Nigerian Navy. We believe that sustained collaboration between maritime journalists and the Navy is vital in promoting transparency, national security, and the development of Nigeria’s blue economy. We look forward to more meaningful engagements in the spirit of mutual growth and national interest. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to knowledge-sharing.”

With backing from strategic partners including Paul Usoro & Co, the program promises lasting impact—not only in enriching media coverage of maritime affairs, but also in strengthening Nigeria’s stake in the global Blue Economy movement.

As the course continues, participants are already shaping narratives that echo far beyond the shore—bringing the deep currents of ocean knowledge to the surface of public discourse.