By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The International Press Centre has called for renewed efforts to protect journalists and safeguard press freedom in Nigeria, warning that attacks on media professionals continue to threaten democracy, access to information, and national peace.
The call was made in a statement issued in Lagos on Saturday to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, commemorated annually on May 3. This year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” highlights the vital role of a free, independent, and responsible press in promoting peace, democratic governance, and social cohesion.
According to the IPC, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists Hub, at least 23 incidents of attacks involving 28 journalists and two media organisations were recorded in 2025. The violations ranged from threats to life, intimidation, and harassment to unlawful arrest, abduction, physical assault, and, in some cases, murder.
The organisation noted that male journalists accounted for the majority of victims, with 23 cases recorded, while three female journalists were affected. Two additional cases did not specify gender. By media category, online platforms recorded the highest number of attacks with 16 incidents, followed by broadcast media with 10, while print recorded one case.
Executive Director of the IPC, Lanre Arogundade, said the global media landscape continues to face significant challenges, including conflict, misinformation, shrinking civic space, and political instability.
“At a time when the world continues to grapple with conflicts, misinformation, political instability, and growing threats to civic space, the role of the media as a pillar of truth and accountability cannot be overstated,” he said.
Arogundade stressed that journalism remains essential for amplifying marginalised voices, countering disinformation, and facilitating informed public discourse, all of which are critical to sustainable peace and development.
He, however, expressed concern over the growing dangers confronting journalists worldwide, including harassment, unlawful detention, violent attacks, and killings, describing such threats as a direct assault on press freedom and the public’s right to credible information.
“The safety of journalists must be prioritised by governments, security agencies, and all relevant stakeholders,” he added.
The IPC also urged authorities to strengthen constitutional and legal protections for journalists while ensuring accountability for crimes committed against media professionals.
It further emphasised the need for ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting, calling on journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, and fairness, especially in an era increasingly shaped by misinformation and hate speech.
As part of activities marking the day, the IPC, with support from the International Freedom of Expression Exchange, launched a new publication titled, “The Unseen Enablers,” which examines the role of non-state actors in undermining press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
The report highlights how these actors impede access to information and the dissemination of news, thereby creating an increasingly hostile environment for journalism practice.
The IPC called on governments, civil society organisations, media owners, and the international community to work together in building a media environment that promotes peace, justice, and inclusive development.
It concluded that a peaceful future can only be achieved where the press is free, diverse voices are heard, and truth is allowed to prevail.
