Journalists honour ex-NIWA MD Oyebamiji for media-friendly approach

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Coalition of Maritime Journalists (CMJ) has voted former National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Managing Director, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, as the Most Media-Friendly Chief Executive Officer in Nigeria’s maritime industry.

CMJ cited his accessibility, openness to scrutiny, and support for maritime reporters.

The CMJ, a respected body of seasoned journalists with decades of experience covering Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sector, whose selection process was rigorous, evidence-driven, and anchored on professional integrity.

In a statement issued by the Convener of the group, Elder Frank Meke, the former NIWA helmsman, who is also a leading gubernatorial aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the December 13, 2025 party primary, was chosen after an extensive review of his engagements, accessibility, and support for journalists during his tenure.

Elder Meke noted that Asiwaju Oyebamiji distinguished himself through consistent collaboration with the media, his openness to scrutiny, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of maritime reporters.

“Among all Chief Executive Officers in the maritime sector, Asiwaju Oyebamiji stands out as the most accessible, unassuming, and approachable,” Meke said. “Whether it is about supporting journalists’ association programmes, responding promptly to industry enquiries, or attending to the personal well-being of journalists, he remains exceptional.

Oyebamiji

He is truly a journalist’s CEO, and the media community has unanimously agreed to honour him with this distinguished award.”

The group also commended his role in strengthening information flow between NIWA and the maritime press, describing him as a bridge-builder whose leadership encouraged transparency, accountability, and harmonious stakeholder engagement.

The award, CMJ noted, is not merely a recognition of past gestures but an acknowledgement of his enduring respect for the media as indispensable partners in national development.