As part of the ongoing 2025 Press Week, members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council held a peaceful march on Monday in solidarity for press freedom, human rights protection, and a better work environment.
The solidarity march, known as “Walk for Press Freedom,” attracted over 200 members carrying various 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,” and “Censorship kills democracy — defend press freedom.”
Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, 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.”
She emphasised that without a free press, society suffers and people’s voices are silenced, noting that the search for truth is obstructed.
She added that journalism plays a crucial role in promoting good governance, accountability, and protecting people’s rights, which is why this year’s theme is “Press Freedom, Democracy, Media and Society.”
Ike highlighted that in a time of economic hardship and mounting threats to media freedom, journalists must resist censorship, harassment, and violence. She recognised the importance of journalists who give voice to the voiceless and help keep those in power in check.
She called on government, civil society, and the public to support and defend press freedom, stating that democracy cannot flourish without a strong and independent media.
She also appealed 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.
“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, the chairman of the planning committee, Evelyn Onyilo, said, “Genuine democracy will only thrive if the press is free. Anything short of that is unacceptable and contrary to 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, stated that the walk aimed 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.
