World Press Freedom Day: Security Agencies Urged To Respect Rights Of Journalists
By Sunday Etuka
As journalists celebrate World Press Freedom Day, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has called on security agencies in the country, especially, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to respect the rights of journalists while performing their watchdog functions.
The United Nations General Assembly declared May 3 as World Press Freedom Day to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In a statement on Sunday, marking the Day, Comrade Alhassan said this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” speaks directly to the Nigerian experience, underscoring the critical role of journalism in fostering peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and promoting accountability in a complex security environment.
He said the National Executive Council (NEC) of the NUJ noted with cautious optimism the recent improvement in relations between the Department of State Services (DSS) and the media. Stating that the noticeable decline in cases of intimidation, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of journalists represents a positive step toward strengthening press freedom and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
According to him, the NEC commended the leadership of the DSS, particularly the Director-General, for fostering a more professional and constructive engagement with the media. Adding that the progress demonstrates that cooperation between security agencies and the press is not only possible but essential in shaping a peaceful and secure society.
However, he said these gains must be sustained and deepened through continuous dialogue, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law. Noting that press freedom remains a constitutional right and a cornerstone for achieving human rights, development, and national security.
“On this important occasion, the NUJ calls on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to emulate this positive example by respecting the rights of journalists and creating an enabling environment for the media to operate without fear or intimidation,” he said.
Comrade Alhassan said the Union also reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism and urged its members to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards. Saying that in promoting peace and development, journalists must remain guided by accuracy, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility to the public.
He said the NUJ remains open to constructive engagement with all stakeholders in building a safer, freer, and more inclusive media environment. Stressing that the media and security institutions are not adversaries, but partners in the collective effort to promote peace, protect human rights, and advance national development.
“As we mark World Press Freedom Day 2026, we call on all stakeholders—government, security agencies, the media, and citizens—to renew their commitment to protecting press freedom as a vital pillar for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” the National Chairman said in the statement.
