|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
A coalition of maritime journalists is set to visit the immediate past Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, in recognition of his exceptional support for the maritime media and his recent political nomination.
The courtesy visit, scheduled for the third week of January 2026, will serve as a dual-purpose engagement formally appreciating Oyebamiji’s media-friendly leadership style at NIWA and congratulating him on securing the APC ticket ahead of the Osun governorship race.
According to the Coalition, the delegation will also present a formal nomination letter proposing Oyebamiji for the Most Media-Friendly CEO award, in acknowledgement of his openness, accessibility, and deliberate efforts to strengthen professional engagement between maritime institutions and the press. The visit is also expected to agree on a suitable date for the conferment of the award.
Members of the Coalition noted that Oyebamiji’s three-year tenure at NIWA represented a clear shift from traditional media relations, as he consistently encouraged maritime journalists to move beyond desk reporting. Under his leadership, reporters were supported to undertake field assignments to waterways, jetties, project sites and operational zones, enabling first-hand coverage of inland waterways development across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the Coalition, veteran maritime journalist, Mr. Frank Meke, said Oyebamiji strongly believed that credible journalism is rooted in direct exposure and practical understanding of sector realities.
He added that the former NIWA boss ensured journalists were actively involved in tracking real-time developments rather than relying solely on official statements.
The Coalition further recalled that Oyebamiji facilitated broader exposure for maritime journalists through organised visits to coastal and riverine states, a move aimed at equipping the press with deeper insight to provide informed analysis and constructive feedback to policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Journalists including; Tola Adenubi, Innocent Orok, Yusuf Babalola and Joshua Yousouph also acknowledged Oyebamiji’s assurance that his cordial relationship with the media would be sustained if elected Governor of Osun State.
They noted his appreciation of Osun State’s cultural and environmental heritage, particularly the globally renowned Osun Festival and the Osun River, which he described as central to continued environmental and waterways-focused reporting.
“He understands the strategic role of the media especially the maritime press in shaping public perception and influencing policy. He has assured us that the openness, respect and encouragement we enjoyed at NIWA will continue,” Meke said.
The Coalition described the planned visit as a gesture of gratitude and a reaffirmation of the enduring partnership between public office holders and the media in advancing transparency, development and informed governance.
Details of the visit and the award ceremony will be announced in due course.
