Ethical Journalism, Responsible Storytelling, Key to Building Trust and National Development —Experts

Experts have called for a stronger commitment to ethical journalism, data-driven reporting, and responsible storytelling as key elements in building trust and supporting national development.

The call was made during the inauguration of the new executive council of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 with the theme, “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime and National Development.”

Delivering the keynote address at the event, Managing Director, Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola, noted that the role of journalism has evolved beyond reporting events, describing the profession as a critical pillar of accountability and public trust.

“In this age and time, journalism is more than reporting events. It’s now the backbone of accountability, public trust and informed citizenship,” Abimbola said.

He stressed the need for journalists and public relations professionals to view themselves as partners in shaping credible narratives rather than competitors, noting that both fields play complementary roles in informing the public and strengthening institutions.

According to him, ethical reporting remains essential to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector, urging journalists to prioritise truth, accuracy, and public interest in their work.
He encouraged journalists to choose “truth over clicks, public interest over patronage, and courage over convenience,” adding that responsible journalism must be supported by facts, credible data, and proper verification.
Abimbola further emphasised the importance of data-driven journalism, urging reporters covering specialised sectors such as maritime to rely on verified information and provide context that helps audiences better understand industry issues.
Speaking on the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, he advised journalists to strengthen fact-checking practices and remain intentional about protecting public trust.
“When ethics guide the press, the maritime sector and the nation develop with integrity,” he added.
The event brought together maritime stakeholders, media practitioners, and industry professionals to discuss the role of journalism in promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth within Nigeria’s maritime sector.

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