Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ As World Press Freedom Day is marked globally, the Nigerian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) has issued a firm call for renewed national efforts to safeguard press freedom and protect journalists.
In a joint statement by Tobi Soniyi, the committee’s legal adviser and chair of its advocacy unit, alongside secretary Ochiaka Ugwu, IPI Nigeria urged both federal and state governments to eliminate barriers that hinder journalistic work across the country.
They emphasized that public institutions, especially security agencies, must protect rather than suppress the press. “We call on the federal and state governments, as well as their agencies, to uphold press freedom by removing all obstacles to journalism practice in Nigeria,” the statement read.
A significant concern raised by the group is the misuse of the Cybercrimes Act, which it claims is increasingly deployed to intimidate and harass media practitioners. IPI Nigeria warned against this trend and called for a shift toward more supportive engagement from security agencies to foster a vibrant media environment.
Despite growing challenges, the organization praised Nigerian journalists for their courage and professionalism amid threats, harassment, and financial hardship. However, it also spotlighted poor remuneration and unpaid salaries as ongoing threats to journalistic integrity. “We urge employers to provide fair remuneration. Unpaid salaries and poor pay threaten press freedom,” the institute noted.
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3rd, serves to celebrate journalistic values, assess global media conditions, and honor journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth.
IPI Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to standing by journalists and upholding media freedom, calling on all stakeholders to reflect and recommit to the principles of ethical and independent journalism.
“This is a time to reflect and recommit to the values of professional journalism,” the statement concluded.
This year’s observance of World Press Freedom Day reminds both the Nigerian public and leadership of the crucial role a free, fair, and independent media plays in promoting transparency, accountability, and democracy.
