By Sandra Chukwunyere
The General Manager, Corporate Communication and Strategy of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ikechukwu Onyemachara, has commended the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) for what he described as a smooth, peaceful, and rancour-free leadership transition.
Mr. Onyemachara gave the commendation on Tuesday, May 12 when the newly elected Executive Committee of MARAN paid him a courtesy visit in Lagos.
He noted that the seamless transition within the association reflects a strong administrative structure capable of sustaining unity, stability, and institutional continuity.

According to him, in many organisations, caretaker committees often attempt tenure elongation, a situation that can lead to internal divisions and instability. He, however, praised MARAN for avoiding such pitfalls and successfully conducting a peaceful electoral process.
Mr. Onyemachara also applauded the association for its culture of recognising and celebrating past leaders, describing it as a sign of institutional maturity and respect for continuity.

He urged the newly inaugurated Executive Committee, led by MARAN President Oluyinka Onigbinde, to remain focused and continue engaging stakeholders constructively in advancing the maritime sector.
Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Onigbinde said the visit was to appreciate the Nigerian Ports Authority for its sustained support to MARAN over the years and to seek stronger collaboration for future programmes and initiatives.
It would be recalled that MARAN held its election on May 7, producing a seven-member Executive Committee. The newly elected officers are Oluyinka Onigbinde (President), Sylvanus Obasi (Vice President), Fabian Anawo (Secretary), Amina Ojelabi (Assistant Secretary), Ruth Sunday (Treasurer), Ambrose Okehi (Financial Secretary), and Providence Ayanfeoluwa (Public Relations Officer).

