NUJ Raises Alarm Over Journalists’ Safety, Disinformation on World Press Freedom Day

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone B, has called for urgent action to protect journalists and combat disinformation, warning that press freedom remains critical to peace, development, and security.

In a statement marking the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, the NUJ Vice President, Zone B, Ronke Afebioye-Samo, said the theme of this year’s celebration—“Shaping a Future of Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security”—underscores the need for a free and independent media.

The global event, organised by UNESCO in collaboration with the Government of Zambia, is scheduled to hold in Lusaka from May 4 to 5.

Afebioye-Samo noted that World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the United Nations in 1993, serves to promote press freedom, evaluate its state worldwide, defend the media from attacks, and honour journalists who lost their lives in the line of duty. She urged governments to uphold Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees the right to freedom of expression and access to information.

Highlighting challenges in Nigeria’s South West, the NUJ identified three critical areas requiring immediate attention.

On journalists’ safety, the union decried increasing cases of harassment and attacks on media professionals during elections, protests, and communal conflicts. It called on security agencies and state governments to investigate and prosecute offenders, stressing that impunity encourages further violations.

Addressing the rise of artificial intelligence, the NUJ warned that while AI is transforming newsrooms, it is also amplifying disinformation, including deepfakes capable of destabilising communities. The union said it would prioritise AI literacy and training for its members to counter the growing threat.

The statement also raised concerns over poor access to public information and the welfare of journalists. It urged authorities to fully implement the Freedom of Information Act, noting that restricted access to data undermines development. The union further emphasised that poor remuneration, unpaid salaries, and lack of insurance expose journalists to undue pressure and compromise.

Despite not holding a physical gathering this year, the NUJ Zone B reaffirmed its commitment to training journalists, engaging policymakers, and partnering with civil society to strengthen press freedom.

The union stressed that peace and development depend on a media environment that is free, safe, and sustainable, urging government, media stakeholders, and citizens to work collectively to protect press freedom in Nigeria.