Ports Police Seek Stronger Media Partnership To Enhance Maritime Security

The Ports Authority Police (Western) Command has called for stronger collaboration with maritime journalists to enhance security within Nigeria’s port environment and support the growth of the nation’s maritime economy.

The Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Oluwatoyin Iyabode Agbaminoja, made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) during a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.

The visit, led by MARAN President, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, provided an avenue for both parties to reaffirm their commitment to promoting safety, security and operational efficiency across Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Speaking during the meeting, Onigbinde commended the Command for its efforts in protecting the nation’s ports and other critical maritime infrastructure, describing security as a key driver of sustainable trade and economic development.

He pledged MARAN’s continued support through responsible journalism, accurate reporting and constructive engagement with stakeholders in the maritime industry.

According to him, the media plays a vital role in creating public awareness, promoting transparency and drawing attention to issues affecting the efficiency and competitiveness of Nigerian ports.

In her remarks, Agbaminoja congratulated the newly elected MARAN leadership and acknowledged the association’s contributions to the dissemination of credible information on developments within the maritime sector.

She stressed that stronger cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the media would enhance public confidence, improve security awareness and contribute to national economic growth.

The police commissioner noted that effective communication and timely information sharing remain critical to addressing security challenges within the port ecosystem, describing the media as a strategic partner in achieving those objectives.

Agbaminoja further assured the association of the Command’s commitment to maintaining open communication channels and fostering productive partnerships aimed at strengthening port security, maritime safety and trade facilitation.

Nigeria’s ports serve as critical gateways for international trade and revenue generation, making maritime security a key component of the country’s economic stability. Stakeholders have continued to advocate closer collaboration among security agencies, regulators, operators and the media to improve surveillance, curb criminal activities and enhance operational efficiency across the sector.

The meeting ended with both the Ports Authority Police Command and MARAN reaffirming their commitment to sustained engagement and cooperation towards building a safer and more efficient maritime industry.