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The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council, has urged strengthened national security, greater protection of press freedom, and improved welfare for journalists as the nation celebrates 65 years of Independence.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, the Council noted the critical role of journalists in sustaining democracy and driving national development.
The Council further reflected on Nigeria’s post-independence journey, describing it as one of resilience, unity in diversity, and a collective aspiration for peace, progress, and democratic governance.
While acknowledging the country’s achievements over the past six and a half decades, the NUJ FCT noted that the safety of citizens, the protection of the press, and the welfare of journalists remain urgent priorities that require renewed commitment and decisive action.
The Council expressed profound sorrow over the death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a promising young journalist, describing her loss as a poignant reminder of the need to strengthen measures aimed at improving security across the country.
“It is the constitutional duty of the government to safeguard the lives and property of its citizens,” the statement read. “We therefore call for accelerated security reforms, including the strengthening of community policing, consideration of state policing where appropriate, and the deployment of modern surveillance technologies, such as Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), across our cities. We urge the Honourable Minister of the FCT and the relevant security agencies to ensure that these measures translate into tangible and lasting results for the safety of all Nigerians.”
The NUJ FCT emphasised that journalists are partners in national development, highlighting their indispensable role in informing, educating and amplifying the voices of citizens while holding leaders accountable.
To enable them to fulfil these responsibilities effectively, the Council called for improved working conditions for journalists, fair and timely remuneration, and adequate psychosocial support for those exposed to trauma and professional hazards.
“As we commemorate this milestone in our nation’s history, we reaffirm our commitment to ethical journalism anchored on truth, fairness and service to the public good.
“These values can only thrive in an environment where press freedom is protected and where government, civil society and the private sector work collaboratively to advance national progress,” the Council said in the statement.
Paying tribute to Maduagwu, it commended her dedication to journalism and described her return from abroad to serve Nigeria as an inspiring testament to patriotism and professionalism.
“Her memory must ignite a renewed national commitment to protect journalists and to confront insecurity with urgency and sincerity,” the statement reads.
On the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the NUJ FCT Council urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in upholding the ideals of unity, peace and democracy.
It reminded citizens that “democracy flourishes when the press is free and protected”, and called for collective action to safeguard the press as a cornerstone of national stability and development.