The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) has commended the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) for sustaining its annual lecture series, describing the initiative as vital to informed discourse on the challenges and prospects of the nation’s maritime industry.
The Director-General of IMION, in a goodwill message delivered by the representative Commodore Issa Ahmed at the 4th Edition of the MARAN Annual Lecture held on September 10, 2026, said the theme, “Nigerian Port Modernisation, Charges and the Competitiveness Question,” was timely and central to Nigeria’s aspiration to build efficient, attractive and globally competitive ports.
The institute noted that sustainable port modernisation goes beyond physical infrastructure, stressing the importance of skilled manpower, innovative technology, efficient processes, sound regulatory frameworks and policies that promote ease of doing business.
According to IMION, port charges must also be transparent, competitive and aligned with the quality of services provided.
“As an Institute committed to capacity building, professional development and policy advocacy in the maritime sector, IMION recognises that sustainable port modernisation goes beyond physical infrastructure,” the statement said.
The institute commended MARAN for bringing critical port-related issues to the forefront of national conversation, adding that effective policy advocacy must be supported by credible information, research and constructive engagement among government agencies, regulators, port operators and other industry stakeholders.
It further emphasised the important role of the maritime media in promoting informed public discourse, accountability and a better understanding of the reforms required to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a preferred maritime hub.
The Director-General, on behalf of IMION’s management and staff, wished MARAN a successful and impactful annual lecture, expressing confidence that the deliberations would produce practical recommendations capable of improving port efficiency, reducing avoidable costs and enhancing Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness.
The institute also reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders in capacity development, policy advocacy and knowledge-driven initiatives aimed at supporting the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
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