NUJ Urges Protection of Press Freedom in Nigeria, Demands Better Welfare for Journalists
By Rejoice Peterside, Abuja
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has called on the government at all levels, civil society organisations, and the general public to unite in protecting press freedom across the country, especially within the Federal Capital Territory.
This call was made during a peaceful “Walk for Press Freedom” held on Monday in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2025 NUJ FCT Press Week, themed “Seeking Deliverance from the Ancient Troubles of Life.”
Addressing journalists and participants, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Ms. Grace Ike, described the event as a powerful statement and a reaffirmation of the media’s role as the vigilant guardian of truth and democracy in Nigeria.
“It is only through a robust, independent media that democracy can truly flourish,” she said. “Without press freedom, society is shackled, voices are silenced, and the pursuit of freedom becomes a distant dream. Our profession holds the flame that lights the path for good governance, accountability, and the protection of fundamental rights.”
Ms. Ike emphasised that despite the rising economic challenges and growing threats to journalists, the union remains committed to resisting censorship, intimidation, and violence against media practitioners.
“We will continue to champion a media space that respects the rights of journalists, nurtures democracy, and empowers every voice,” she said.
She also used the occasion to demand improved working conditions for journalists, insisting that those who risk their lives in the line of duty deserve fair treatment and professional respect.
“Journalists are not beggars. They are frontline workers in the quest for truth, justice, and national development. They must be treated with the utmost parity and interest,” Ike asserted.
The NUJ FCT Chairperson also called on journalists to remain ethical in their work by ensuring balanced and factual reporting. She encouraged media professionals to hold public officials accountable, give voice to the voiceless, and avoid becoming instruments of misinformation.
“The freedom of expression that we enjoy is a driver for all other human rights, but it comes with a huge responsibility. We must resist misinformation and adapt to the evolving media landscape responsibly,” she added.
Speaking during the event, Mrs. Evelyn Onyilo, Chairman of the Press Week Organising Committee, urged the Nigerian government to demonstrate sincerity in its commitment to press freedom as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“Anything short of that is unacceptable and contradicts the ideals of democracy,” Onyilo stated.
She condemned the growing trend of hostility towards journalists by politicians and public office holders, noting that many of those who rode on the back of the media to gain prominence now treat journalists with contempt.
“Once in office, they see journalists as enemies or as people to be silenced. This must stop,” she said. “Many journalists work under inhumane conditions, and their welfare is often ignored. This is unacceptable.”
Also lending his voice, Vice Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Mr. Ndambabo Yahaya, said the walk was intended to amplify the message that press freedom is a right, not a privilege.
“We want to make it clear that press freedom is the mother of all freedoms. We are calling on all stakeholders to come together and protect this right,” he said.
The walk began at the popular Berger Roundabout and ended at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako. It drew participation from journalists across the FCT and neighbouring areas, many of whom carried placards with inscriptions such as “Press Freedom is Democracy,” “Protect Journalists, Protect the Truth,” and “Journalism is Not a Crime.”
The event was peaceful and drew attention from onlookers and passersby, reinforcing the significance of the media’s role in building a just and accountable societies
