NUJ FCT Holds ‘Walk for Press Freedom’, Demands Stronger Media Rights and Protection

As part of the ongoing 2025 Press Week celebrations, members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, staged a peaceful march on Monday in advocacy for press freedom, human rights, and improved working conditions for media professionals.

The event, tagged “Walk for Press Freedom,” drew over 200 participants who carried placards with bold messages like: “Without a free press, truth is silenced,” “Censorship kills democracy—defend press freedom,” and “Journalists speak for the voiceless—support their freedom.”

Addressing participants during the march, NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized that the rally was a strong declaration that press freedom is essential and non-negotiable in any functional democracy. She praised the Nigerian media for its consistent role in defending democratic values and truth, stating, “We are here as proud journalists, walking together for media rights and democratic integrity. This is more than symbolic — it’s a clear stance against repression.”

She warned that without a free press, the public’s right to information is compromised and voices are suppressed. Highlighting this year’s Press Week theme — “Press Freedom, Democracy, Media and the Society” — Ike noted that journalists must continue to resist censorship, intimidation, and violence, particularly in the face of economic challenges and shrinking media freedoms. She called for improved welfare, professional respect, and greater protection for journalists, appealing to government, civil society, and citizens to stand behind an independent media.

Chair of the planning committee, Mrs Evelyn Onyilo, echoed these sentiments, stressing that true democracy cannot exist without a free press. “We are raising our voices to affirm that press freedom is not optional — it is foundational,” she stated.

Vice Chairman of the Council, Ndambabo Yahaya, also underscored the significance of the walk, saying, “Press freedom is a right, not a privilege. It underpins every other liberty,” while urging all stakeholders to prioritize and protect this democratic cornerstone.