MARITIME JOURNALISTS TO HONOUR EX – NIWA MD, OYEBAMIJII FOR EXCEPTIONAL SUPPORT

Maritime Journalists to Honour Ex-NIWA MD, Oyebamiji for Exceptional Support

By Babatunde Aremu

A Coalition of Maritime Journalists has announced plans to pay a courtesy visit to Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, the immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and current All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Osun State. The visit, scheduled for the third week of January, aims to formally appreciate Oyebamiji for his remarkable support to the maritime media during his tenure as NIWA managing director and to congratulate him on his recent political nomination.

During his three-year tenure at NIWA, Oyebamiji marked a significant departure from routine media relations. He deliberately encouraged journalists to go beyond desk reporting, consistently supporting field coverage and enabling maritime reporters to visit project sites, waterways, jetties, and operational areas to gain first-hand understanding of industry issues. This approach has been widely appreciated by the maritime press, who have praised Oyebamiji’s openness, accessibility, and commitment to strengthening media engagement within the maritime sector.

The Coalition of Maritime Journalists will also present a formal letter nominating Oyebamiji for the award of Most Media-Friendly CEO, in recognition of his exceptional support for the media. This nomination is a testament to Oyebamiji’s commitment to promoting transparency, development, and informed governance through his engagement with the media. The award ceremony will be held at a mutually convenient date, which will be communicated in due course.

The planned visit is not only a gesture of gratitude but also a reaffirmation of the vital partnership between public office holders and the media in promoting transparency, development, and informed governance. Oyebamiji has assured the maritime press that his cordial relationship with them will be sustained if elected Governor of Osun State, recognizing the strategic role of the media in shaping public understanding and policy direction.

The maritime journalists, including Tola Adenubi, Innocent Orok, Yusuf Babalola, and Joshua Yousouph, have acknowledged Oyebamiji’s assurances, noting that he understands the importance of media engagement in promoting development and informed governance. They look forward to continuing their partnership with Oyebamiji, promoting transparency and development in the maritime sector and beyond.