Ethical journalism, responsible storytelling vital for national development — Experts

Experts have stressed the need for journalists to embrace ethical reporting, data-driven journalism and responsible storytelling as essential tools for strengthening public trust and driving national development.

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

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Integrated Indigo, Bolaji Abimbola, said journalism has evolved beyond merely reporting events, describing the profession as a key pillar of accountability, transparency and informed citizenship.

According to him, journalists and public relations practitioners should see themselves as partners in promoting credible narratives that strengthen institutions and keep the public properly informed.

Abimbola noted that ethical journalism is critical to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector, urging media professionals to prioritise truth, accuracy and public interest in their reporting.

He also encouraged journalists to resist the pressure to chase online traffic at the expense of credibility, stressing the importance of choosing truth over sensationalism and ensuring that reports are backed by verified facts and reliable data.

The media executive further highlighted the growing relevance of data-driven journalism, particularly in specialised sectors such as maritime, saying contextual and evidence-based reporting would help audiences better understand industry issues.

Addressing the spread of misinformation in the digital era, he urged journalists to strengthen fact-checking processes and remain committed to safeguarding public confidence in the media.

He maintained that ethical journalism remains indispensable to promoting transparency, accountability and sustainable growth in both the maritime sector and the country at large.

The event attracted maritime stakeholders, journalists and industry professionals, who discussed the media’s role in advancing integrity, accountability and sustainable development across Nigeria’s maritime industry.