Former Acting National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Dr. Kayode Farinto, has challenged maritime journalists to take a more active role in revitalising Nigeria’s maritime sector, which he described as stagnant and in urgent need of transformation.
Farinto made the call during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to his Lagos office.
According to him, the maritime media must reclaim its watchdog role and drive conversations that will stimulate growth and reforms within the industry.
He lamented what he described as a decline in the vibrancy of maritime journalism, noting that journalists who once actively shaped industry discourse had become complacent.
“The first thing you must do is wake the industry from its slumber. Maritime journalists were once vibrant and active, but somewhere along the line, they became passive. The industry is dying and requires urgent intervention,” he said.
Farinto stressed that constructive criticism remains a vital tool for accountability and progress, arguing that leaders who are unwilling to accept criticism undermine their own effectiveness.
“If a leader does not want to be criticised, then he is not a leader. Criticism helps leaders assess whether they are performing well or not. Without it, there can be no meaningful progress,” he stated.
He referenced President Bola Tinubu’s public stance on criticism, noting that the President had previously indicated his willingness to accept criticism as a means of improving governance.
Farinto also recalled an encounter with Tinubu in Abuja, where the President described himself as “a thinker and a doer,” adding that such a philosophy should inspire leaders across all sectors, including the maritime industry.
Drawing from his academic experience, the ANLCA chieftain said true leadership requires more than rhetoric, emphasising the need for practical solutions and decisive action.
He urged the newly elected MARAN executives to pursue innovation, remain fearless in the discharge of their duties, and prioritise the interests of the industry above personal considerations.
“You have been elected and entrusted with a mandate. Represent the industry well. If you must step on toes in the course of doing the right thing, do so. If you avoid necessary actions because you do not want to offend anyone, you may ultimately fail the industry and yourself. History will judge your tenure,” he said.
Speaking earlier, MARAN President, Oluyinka Onigbinde, commended Farinto for his contributions to the maritime sector and his role in advancing the fortunes of ANLCA.
He described Farinto as a courageous and outspoken industry stakeholder whose commitment to achieving results had earned him respect across the maritime community.
Also speaking, former MARAN National Secretary, Babatunde Mukaila, advised the new executives to adopt an inclusive leadership style by consulting widely and remaining open to suggestions from stakeholders.
“There are many issues that require attention. I encourage the new executives to hit the ground running, consult widely, and keep their doors open for advice, consultation, and constructive suggestions,” Mukaila said.
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