The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the future of independent media and promoting human rights reporting, as it joined stakeholders in Abuja for the launch of CHRICED’s “Make It Count” initiative.
The commitment was reiterated at a one-day stakeholders’ meeting at the Catholic Secretariat Resource Centre, Durumi. The event was convened by CHRICED Radio and TV in partnership with Weltfilme, Germany, with support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Representing the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, at the event, Mr Kenneth Olajide emphasised the importance of ethical storytelling and independent journalism in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, particularly as the country prepares for another electoral cycle.
He said the Council’s longstanding advocacy for press freedom and journalists’ welfare aligns with the objectives of the “Make It Count” project, describing the initiative as a timely intervention aimed at promoting rights-based reporting.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of CHRICED, Dr Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, said the project was designed to address challenges such as shrinking civic space, intimidation of journalists and the growing spread of misinformation, which continue to threaten independent media and democratic accountability.
According to him, the initiative will equip grassroots media practitioners with the skills and tools needed to produce ethical, human rights-focused multimedia content that encourages civic participation and inclusive development.
Other partners at the meeting, including Weltfilme’s Project Team Lead, Mrs Julia Krojer, and representatives of the National Human Rights Commission, reaffirmed their support for independent and community media as vital platforms for amplifying marginalised voices and advancing truth, justice and human dignity.
Disability rights advocates and civil society organisations also called for a more inclusive and rights-centred media environment.
The NUJ FCT Council said its participation in the initiative reflects its determination to collaborate with CHRICED, Weltfilme and other stakeholders to promote ethical journalism, defend press freedom and strengthen a resilient media ecosystem capable of sustaining human rights reporting in Nigeria.
