NUJ FCT Journalists March For Press Freedom, Better Working Conditions
Journalists in the Federal Capital Territory took to the streets on Monday in a peaceful solidarity march to demand press freedom, improved welfare, and respect for democratic values.
The march, tagged “Walk for Press Freedom”, is part of ongoing activities marking the 2025 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council.
Over 200 journalists turned out, holding placards with messages such as “Censorship kills democracy”, “Journalists speak for the voiceless”, and “Without a free press, truth is silenced.”
Chairman of NUJ FCT, Comrade Grace Ike, described the march as a powerful reminder that a free press is fundamental to any thriving democracy. “This isn’t just a symbolic walk,” she said. “It’s a declaration that we, as journalists, are standing firm for truth, media rights, and accountability especially in these challenging times.”
Highlighting this year’s theme “Press Freedom, Democracy, Media and the Society”, Ike called on government, civil society, and the public to support an independent press and ensure journalists are treated with dignity and fairness.
She emphasised that without press freedom, other rights are at risk.
Chair of the planning committee, Mrs Evelyn Onyilo, echoed these sentiments. “Democracy only works when the press is free,” she said. “Journalists are not enemies of the state we are partners in progress.”
Also speaking, NUJ FCT Vice Chairman, Ndambabo Yahaya, stressed that press freedom is not a privilege but a right. “It is the foundation upon which all other freedoms stand,” he said, urging authorities to safeguard this essential democratic pillar.
The walk sent a clear message: Nigerian journalists will not be silenced — they will continue to fight for a media environment that supports democracy, respects human rights, and amplifies every voice.
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