Master mariner and former Minister of Interior, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho; pioneer SOAN President and Starzs Group Chairman, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun; and ex-ANLCA National President and Skellas Group CEO, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, have confirmed attendance at the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) reception honouring its past presidents.
The landmark event, set for Friday, April 24, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, is fast becoming a melting point for top players in the maritime industry. Dignitaries from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, regulators, terminal operators, shipping firms, freight forwarders, and corporate bodies have also pledged to attend.
Founded 38 years ago, MARAN is staging the grand reception to celebrate the legacy, service, and impact of its former leaders who shaped the association into a respected voice in Nigeria’s maritime space.
The event will also reinforce the role of maritime journalism in shaping policy, promoting accountability, and driving sectoral growth.
MARAN Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tunde Ayodele, said the reception will reflect on the legacies of past presidents and strengthen collaboration between the media and industry operators amid ongoing reforms and modernization.
Planning Committee Chairman Funsho Olojo, who also chairs the Board of Trustees, described it as a veritable platform to “unveil the excellence and celebrate the rising profiles” of past leaders.
“MARAN has produced finest individuals who sacrificed their time, energy, and intellects to make it the greatest beat association in the maritime industry,” Olojo stated.
“Some are excelling as Ministers of God, some in the legal profession, some as media moguls and employers of labour, while others serve as political appointees.”
The programme will feature award presentations, goodwill messages, and networking sessions to deepen stakeholder engagement.
MARAN, the foremost maritime journalists’ body with an International Press Centre at its GRA Apapa secretariat, is calling on stakeholders and corporate organizations to support the historic event through sponsorships and partnerships.
