As part of activities marking the 2025 Press Week, journalists under the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, took to the streets on Monday in a peaceful march to advocate for press freedom, human rights, and improved working conditions for media professionals.

The event, tagged “Walk for Press Freedom,” brought together over 200 journalists who carried placards with powerful messages such as “Censorship kills democracy,” “Without a free press, truth is silenced,” and “Journalists speak for the voiceless.”

Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, emphasized that the walk was more than symbolic—it was a powerful reminder that a free and independent press is essential for any thriving democracy.

“We are here as proud journalists, united under the NUJ FCT Council, standing up for truth, democracy, and the right to report freely. A free press is not negotiable,” she said.

Grace Ike stressed that journalists play a vital role in defending public interest, promoting good governance, and holding leaders accountable. She also pointed out the growing threats to media freedom in Nigeria, including harassment, censorship, and poor welfare.

“In these tough times, we must remain committed to ethical journalism, fight misinformation, and resist attempts to silence us. Democracy needs a strong, independent media to survive,” she added.

Mrs. Evelyn Onyilo, chairman of the press week planning committee, echoed the sentiment, stating that true democracy cannot thrive without a free press. “We’re sending a clear message today—press freedom is not a favour; it’s a right,” she declared.

Vice Chairman Ndambabo Yahaya also weighed in, saying, “This march highlights that press freedom is the foundation of all other freedoms. It’s our duty to protect it, not just for journalists but for the entire society.”

The NUJ FCT Press Week continues with more events aimed at celebrating media work, raising awareness on key issues affecting journalists, and pushing for reforms that will protect and empower the press in Nigeria.

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