A coalition of maritime journalists has announced plans to recognise the immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, with the award of Most Media-Friendly CEO.
In a statement on Wednesday, signed by the spokesperson of the coalition, Mr Joshua Yousouph, the group explained that the award was in recognition of Oyebamiji’s consistent openness, accessibility, and commitment to strengthening media engagement within the maritime sector.
The group also announced plans to pay a courtesy visit to Oyebamiji later in the month to hold discussions and fix a mutually convenient date for the conferment of the award.
According to the coalition, the visit is aimed at formally appreciating Oyebamiji for his remarkable support for the maritime media during his tenure as NIWA Managing Director, as well as to congratulate and wish him well on his recent political nomination.
“The visit will also serve as an opportunity to present a formal letter nominating Mr Oyebamiji for the award of Most Media-Friendly CEO, in recognition of his consistent openness, accessibility, and commitment to strengthening media engagement within the maritime sector.
Discussions will also be held to agree on a mutually convenient date for the conferment of the award,” the statement read in part.
The group noted that Oyebamiji’s three-year tenure at NIWA marked a significant departure from routine media relations, adding that he deliberately encouraged journalists to go beyond desk reporting.
“He consistently supported field coverage, enabling maritime reporters to visit project sites, waterways, jetties, and operational areas to gain a first-hand understanding of industry issues,” it added.
A senior maritime journalist, Frank Meke, speaking on behalf of the group, explained that Oyebamiji “believed that informed reporting comes from direct exposure.”
Meke added that Oyebamiji’s administration ensured journalists were not confined to press statements but were actively exposed to real-time developments across Nigeria’s inland waterways.
He recalled that part of Oyebamiji’s vision was to expand the exposure of the maritime press by facilitating visits to coastal states across the country.
This, he said, was designed to equip journalists with practical insights to enable them to offer informed analysis and constructive advisory input to government and industry stakeholders.
He acknowledged Oyebamiji’s assurances that his cordial relationship with the maritime press would be sustained if elected governor of Osun State.
“He understands the strategic role of the media, especially the maritime press, in shaping public understanding and policy direction. He has assured us that the same openness, respect, and encouragement we enjoyed at NIWA will continue,” Meke stressed.
He described the planned visit as both a gesture of gratitude and a reaffirmation of the vital partnership between public office holders and the media in promoting transparency, development, and informed governance.
The coalition is a group of veteran journalists, especially in the maritime sector, with the intention to assess and reward performing heads of agencies.
