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By Our Reporter
The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of the Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR) has called on the Federal Government to strengthen maritime security and invest in marine infrastructure to unlock the enormous economic potential of Akwa Ibom coastal resources.
The call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of a one-day training workshop held in Uyo on Thursday with the theme, “Understanding the Operations of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Their Marine Logistics Services Companies in Akwa Ibom State Waterways.”
The workshop, attended by journalists, security experts and industry stakeholders, featured presentations by Mr. Sunny Udom on the operations of International Oil Companies and marine logistics services, while retired Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP Joseph A. Udoh delivered a lecture on maritime security, marine logistics operations and safety measures for journalists covering offshore activities.
Participants observed that International Oil Companies remain major contributors to Nigeria’s economy through investments, employment generation and revenue, while marine logistics is critical to the success of offshore oil and gas operations. They noted that Akwa Ibom State possesses strategic coastal advantages capable of making it a leading marine logistics and energy services hub in Nigeria.
The communiqué, however, expressed concern over persistent security threats such as piracy, crude oil theft, kidnapping, pipeline vandalism and smuggling, stressing that stronger collaboration among the Nigerian Navy, Police, NIMASA, NSCDC, DSS and other relevant agencies is essential to protect national assets and sustain offshore operations.
The workshop also emphasized the need for accurate, balanced and ethical journalism to promote transparency, accountability and investor confidence in the energy and maritime sectors. Journalists were urged to continuously improve their professional knowledge, observe safety protocols during offshore assignments and avoid publishing sensitive operational information that could jeopardize national security.
Participants further called on International Oil Companies and marine logistics firms to strengthen engagement with host communities through environmental sustainability initiatives and corporate social responsibility programmes.
The workshop commended the Executive Committee of the EMR Akwa Ibom State led by Comrade Harrison Ndifreke, for organizing the capacity-building programme and reaffirmed the commitment of members to professionalism, safety consciousness and responsible reporting in support of the sustainable development of Nigeria’s energy and maritime sectors.
