In a bold move to address the deep-rooted issue of corruption within Nigeria’s maritime sector, the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) has launched its monthly stakeholder engagement series, beginning with a powerful round table discussion in Lagos.

The maiden edition of the CONMMEP Round Table featured High Chief Dr. Basil Chudi Nwolisa, a respected maritime expert and President of the National Compliance Joint Taskforce of Licensed Clearing Agents (NCJTFLCA). Dr. Nwolisa did not mince words in his keynote address, describing the maritime sector as a “crime scene” rife with corruption, inefficiencies, and regulatory lapses that inflate costs and threaten national progress.

“Corruption increases the prices of goods and services, and if we do not address it, we risk leaving a legacy of despair for future generations,” Dr. Nwolisa warned, calling for urgent reforms and unified action across all levels of the industry.

Also speaking at the event, Comrade Udo Onyeka, President of CONMMEP, pledged the media body’s support in driving transparency and accountability across the freight forwarding and logistics value chain. “We must be committed to fighting corruption within our ranks,” Onyeka stated, emphasizing the need for patriotic collaboration among stakeholders.

The session served as a wake-up call for industry players and regulators to confront the systemic issues hindering progress. Dr. Nwolisa reiterated that without sincere and coordinated efforts to eradicate corruption, Nigeria’s maritime sector risks long-term damage.

The event ended with a **renewed pledge by participants to unite against corruption** and to work collaboratively towards restoring the integrity of Nigeria’s maritime industry. With this inaugural round table, CONMMEP has set the tone for what promises to be an impactful campaign for ethical reform in the sector.