Over 200 journalists marched through Abuja on Monday, July 21, 2025, in a powerful display of solidarity for press freedom, human rights, and improved working conditions during the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council’s 2025 Press Week.
The “Walk for Press Freedom,” from Berger Roundabout to the NUJ Secretariat in Utako, saw participants wielding placards with messages like “Without a free press, truth is silenced” and “Censorship kills democracy — defend press freedom.”
The event, part of the Press Week themed “Journalism in a Changing World: Media, Press Freedom, Democracy & Society,” underscored the media’s critical role in Nigeria’s democracy.
Comrade Grace Ike, NUJ FCT Council Chairperson, led the march, urging government, civil society, and the public to protect press freedom.
“It is only through a robust, independent media that democracy can truly flourish,” she said, describing the walk as “a powerful statement” that journalists remain “vigilant guardians of truth.”
Ike highlighted threats like censorship, intimidation, and violence, pledging that the NUJ stands united against such challenges. “Journalists are not beggars,” she asserted, demanding fair wages and better conditions for media workers who risk their lives for truth and national development.
Mrs. Evelyn Onyilo, Press Week Organizing Committee Chairman, echoed Ike’s call, urging the government to uphold constitutional press freedom guarantees.
“Anything short of that is unacceptable and against democratic ideals,” she said, decrying the perception of journalists as enemies by those in power.
Onyilo stressed that journalists, often working in “horrible conditions,” deserve respect as partners in progress. She called for an end to suspicion and humiliation of media workers, emphasizing their role in amplifying the voiceless.
Ndambabo Yahaya, NUJ FCT Vice Chairman, described press freedom as “the mother of all freedoms” and a non-negotiable right.
“We hope this event unites stakeholders to fight for press freedom,” he said, urging collaboration to protect journalists.
The march follows global and local press freedom challenges, such as the 2023 arrest of Premium Times journalist Emmanuel Agbo for reporting on corruption, as documented by CPJ, highlighting ongoing risks.
Ike also urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, resist misinformation, and adapt responsibly to the evolving media landscape.
“Freedom of expression drives all human rights, but it comes with responsibility,” she said.
A social media user note, “NUJ FCT’s march proves journalists are democracy’s backbone!”.
As the Press Week continues, the NUJ’s message is clear: a free press is vital for accountability, governance, and a thriving Nigeria.
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