June 28 (THEWILL) — The Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMRN), Akwa Ibom State Branch, has called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders to strengthen maritime security and increase investment in marine infrastructure to unlock Akwa Ibom’s potential as a leading energy and marine logistics hub in West Africa.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a one-day capacity-building workshop organised by the association in Uyo on Friday.
The workshop, themed “Understanding the Operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Their Marine Logistics Service Companies in Akwa Ibom State Waterways”, identified piracy, crude oil theft, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and smuggling as major threats to sustainable offshore oil and gas operations and the nation’s economic assets.
Participants urged the government to deepen collaboration among the Nigerian Navy, the 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 to enhance security across Nigeria’s waterways.
The communiqué also called for greater public investment in marine infrastructure and the implementation of policies that would encourage indigenous participation, create employment opportunities and attract private sector investment into the maritime and energy sectors.
According to the participants, Akwa Ibom’s extensive coastline and offshore oil assets place the state in a strategic position to become a major marine logistics and energy services hub in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.
They noted that International Oil Companies remain critical contributors to Nigeria’s economy through investments, employment and revenue generation, while marine logistics provides essential support for offshore exploration and production by facilitating the movement of personnel, equipment and supplies.
The workshop further acknowledged the impact of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act in expanding opportunities for indigenous companies and skilled professionals within the oil and gas industry.
Participants stressed the need for stronger environmental protection measures, effective oil spill response mechanisms, pollution prevention and improved engagement between oil companies and their host communities.
The communiqué also urged journalists covering the energy and maritime sectors to continually build their professional capacity, uphold ethical standards and ensure accurate, balanced and responsible reporting.
It further advised media practitioners reporting offshore activities to prioritise their safety by conducting risk assessments, obtaining necessary operational clearances, using appropriate personal protective equipment and complying with maritime safety protocols.
In his welcome address, Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the organisation, Comrade Harrison Ndifreke, said the training was organised to equip journalists with practical knowledge of the operations of International Oil Companies and marine logistics activities to enhance the quality of reportage in the sector.
He described the workshop as part of the association’s commitment to promoting professionalism and improving media understanding of the energy and maritime industries.
In a goodwill message, the National Secretary of EMRN, Dr Saviour Ekpe, commended the Akwa Ibom chapter for organising the training and urged other state chapters to emulate the initiative.
Resource persons at the workshop included maritime industry expert Sunny Udom, who spoke on the operations of International Oil Companies and marine logistics services, and retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Joseph A. Udoh, who delivered a lecture on maritime security, marine logistics operations and safety measures for journalists covering the sector.
Participants also commended the EMRN executive led by Harrison Ndifreke for organising the capacity-building programme and reaffirmed their commitment to professionalism, ethical journalism and responsible reporting in support of maritime security and Nigeria’s economic development.
Attached: A cross section of participants at a one-day capacity-building workshop organised by Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMRN), in Uyo at the weekend.
