Edward Omoruyi Osagie, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has been recognised as the most outstanding spokesperson in the Marine and Blue Economy sector. This accolade was awarded during the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Awards (NSAwards), which took place on April 16 in Abuja.
Osagie, known for his approachable demeanour, triumphed over his peers in a competitive field of 62 finalists across 21 categories. His success highlights the significance of effective communication within the maritime sector.
Three notable spokespersons in the maritime industry competed for recognition this year: Osagie from NIMASA, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager of Corporate and Strategic Communication at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and Muyiwa Akande, Head of Public Relations at Sifax Group. Osagie was nominated as a finalist in three categories, including Spokesperson of the Year, Outstanding Spokesperson in Crisis Management (Public Sector), and Outstanding Spokesperson in the Marine and Blue Economy sector. Akande and Onyemekara also participated, with Akande competing in two categories alongside Osagie.
Ultimately, Osagie claimed victory in the Marine and Blue Economy category, solidifying his reputation as a leading communicator in the field.
In other highlights from the awards, Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was named Outstanding Federal Government Spokesperson of the Year. His win came against strong contenders, including Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga and Josephine Adokuru Mudasiru from the Federal Capital Development Authority.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Chairman of the Award’s Adjudication Committee, praised the nominees for their professionalism and the rigorous selection process, which focused on merit. Oyewale was commended for his strategic communication skills, media engagement, and his integral role in promoting the EFCC’s mission.
Other notable winners included:
- Olufemi Soneye (NNPCL) – Distinguished Spokesperson of the Year (Oil and Gas)
- Nigeria Customs Service – Best Corporate Spokesperson Team
- Kashifu Inuwa (NITDA) – Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector)
- Femi Babafemi (NDLEA) – Outstanding Spokesperson (Security Services)
Joshua Audu Gana, a member of the House of Representatives, congratulated the organisers for their efforts in recognising exceptional communicators across sectors. He lauded the winners for their dedication and professionalism, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence.
The Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi Jr., Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, underscored the importance of involving spokespersons in policy discussions. He highlighted that empowering spokespersons with knowledge of key issues would enhance their ability to communicate effectively.
The NSAwards serve as Nigeria’s premier platform celebrating excellence in public relations, strategic communication, and media management, honouring those who demonstrate professionalism, innovative practices, and impactful public engagement.
