NUJ Demands Press Freedom, Better Work Environment

As part of the ongoing 2025 Press Week, members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, yesterday held a peaceful march, demanding for press freedom, human rights protection and a better work environment.

The solidarity march, known as “Walk for Press Freedom” which attracted over 200 members started from the popular Berger junction to the FCT Council’s secretariat in Utako, Abuja.

Participants carried different placards such as “Without a free press, truth is silenced”, “Press freedom protects our right to know”, “Journalists speak for the voiceless — support their freedom”, “Censorship kills democracy — defend press freedom.”

The council chairman, Comrade Grace Ike in her address during the solidarity march described the walk as a strong message that a free press is non negotiable and a vital part of any successful democracy. She noted that the media in Nigeria continues to play a key role in standing for truth and defending democracy.

She said: “Today, we are here as proud journalists, united under the NUJ FCT Council, walking together for press freedom, media rights, and democratic values. This isn’t just a symbolic event — it shows that the media in Nigeria stands firm as a guardian of truth and democracy.”

Ike stressed that without a free press, society suffers — people’s voices are silenced, and the search for truth is hindered.

She added that journalism plays a vital role in promoting good governance, accountability, and protecting people’s rights, which is why this year’s theme is “Press Freedom, Democracy, Media and the Society.”

Ike pointed out that in a time of economic hardship and increasing threats to media freedom, journalists must resist censorship, harassment, and violence. She acknowledged the importance of journalists who give voice to the voiceless and help keep those in power in check.

She appealed to government, civil society, and the public to support and defend press freedom, saying democracy cannot thrive without a strong and independent media. She also urged for better welfare and professional treatment for journalists who risk their lives to keep the public informed.

Ike said: “We must stay united and committed to ethical journalism, stand against false information, and adapt responsibly to the changing media world. This year’s theme reminds us that freedom of speech supports all other human rights.”

She concluded by saying that through the walk and other Press Week activities, NUJ FCT is making it clear, “We will not be silenced. We will keep pushing for a media space that respects rights, supports democracy, and gives everyone a voice.”

Stressing the importance of press freedom, chairman of the planning committee, Evelyn Onyilo said, “Genuine democracy will only thrive if the press is free. Any other thing short of that is unacceptable and against the ideals of democratic practice.

“We are amplifying voices this morning to say that press freedom is non-negotiable, should not be taken for granted and those in power should not see journalists as enemies but partners in progress and we must find a middle ground to ensure that democracy works in Nigeria.”

Also speaking at the event, vice chairman of the Council, Ndambabo Yahaya, said the walk was meant to highlight the importance of press freedom in Nigeria.

“Press freedom is not a favour — it’s our right. It’s the foundation of all other freedoms,” he said, urging the government and other stakeholders to work together to protect it.