By Ambrose Obioma Okehi (News Emperor)
In what appears to be a novel idea which is the first of its kind in the industry, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has concluded plans to celebrate its past presidents whose sweats, dedication and sacrifices have contributed immensely to the transformation of the association into a colossus in maritime journalism.
In a rare display of appreciation to these heroes of the association that is the progenitor and forerunner of maritime journalists’ associations, the group has therefore agreed that the labour of these fine gentlemen will not go unrewarded.
In a press statement signed by the association’s Caretaker committee Chairman ,Tunde Ayodele and the Chairman of the Organising committee, Funso Olojo , the past leaders of MARAN will be showcased and celebrated in a lavish ceremony billed for Rockview Hotel, Apapa on April 24th, 2026 by 3:00 pm.
Mr Ayodele further disclosed that invitations have been extended to all the friends, associates and well wishers of the celebrants to come and share in this epoch- making event.
He expressed sadness over the loss of four of the association’s past leaders but stated that they will be given posthumous awards for their contributions to the association.
Ayodele revealed that as a result of this development, the family members of the deceased have been invited to grace the occasion.
” As an organization which values the contributions of its leaders, MARAN is celebrating its past Presidents for their vision, passion, zeal, tenacity of purpose, sacrifices,resilience and persistence in the face of adversity and daunting challenges that have shaped the association into the foremost and
formidable group of Journalists in the maritime industry” Ayodele declared.
He disclosed that the coming event is coming at the appropriate time when one of our past Presidents, Dr Bolaji Akinola, gained ascendency in his professional career, when he was appointed as the Special Adviser on Communications to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
” The career advancement of Dr Bolaji gladdens our heart at MARAN for being one of the past presidents of this great association and there isn’t a better platform than this event to show appreciation to the Honourable Minister for finding one of our own worthy as one of his special aides” the MARAN Chairman enthused.