UYO – The Nigeria Union of Journalists has called for sustained commitment to press freedom as a critical pillar for peace, national development, and democratic consolidation.

The call was made by the National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi in his keynote address to the occasion observed nationwide, as Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the NUJ National President, who spoke on the topic, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” reflected on Nigeria’s realities and highlights the indispensable role of the media in fostering peace and accountability.

Abdullahi noted with cautious optimism what he described as a noticeable improvement in the relationship between the Department of State Services and the media, citing a decline in cases of harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests of journalists.

He commended the leadership of the DSS, particularly its Director-General, for promoting a more professional and constructive engagement with journalists, stressing that such cooperation is essential to building a secure and peaceful society.

“The progress recorded demonstrates that collaboration between security agencies and the media is not only achievable but necessary in shaping a stable democratic environment,” he stated.

Despite the gains, the NUJ president urged that the momentum be maintained through continuous dialogue, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law, emphasizing that press freedom remains a constitutional right fundamental to human rights and national security.

The Union also called on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to emulate the DSS by respecting journalists’ rights and creating an enabling environment for media practice without fear.

Reaffirming the Union’s commitment to ethical journalism, Abdullahi charged media professionals to uphold the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in their reportage, particularly in a complex security landscape.

He stressed that journalists and security institutions should not be seen as adversaries but as partners working toward a common goal of peace, protection of human rights, and national development.

“As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2026, all stakeholders—government, security agencies, the media, and citizens must renew their commitment to safeguarding press freedom as a vital foundation for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.