WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY: IPC FLAGS ‘UNSEEN ENABLERS’ AS MAJOR THREAT TO JOURNALISTS IN NIGERIA

‎By Chizoba Njaka
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‎The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has joined the global community to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2026, marked under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace.” The theme highlights the vital role of a free, independent, and responsible media in fostering peace, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting social cohesion.
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‎In a statement signed by its Press Freedom Officer, Melody Akinjiyan, the IPC noted that World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, is observed globally on May 3 each year. It serves as a reminder to governments to honour their commitment to press freedom and create a safe environment for journalism.
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‎According to data from the IPC-SPJ Hub, at least 23 attacks involving 28 journalists and two media organisations were documented in 2025. The incidents ranged from threats to life, abductions, unlawful arrests, intimidation, physical assault, forced closure of media outlets, to murder. A gender breakdown also showed 23 male and three female victims, while two were not specified. By medium, online platforms recorded the highest number of attacks with 16 cases, followed by broadcast with 10, and print with one.
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‎Commenting on this year’s theme, IPC Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, said the media remains a pillar of truth and accountability amid global conflicts, misinformation, political instability, and shrinking civic space. “Journalism is essential in amplifying marginalised voices, countering disinformation, and facilitating informed public discourse key ingredients for sustainable peace and development,” he stated.
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‎Mr. Arogundade expressed concern over the growing risks faced by journalists worldwide, including harassment, unlawful detention, violent attacks, and killings. He stressed that such threats undermine both press freedom and citizens’ right to credible information. He called on governments, security agencies, and stakeholders to prioritise journalists’ safety.
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‎The IPC urged renewed commitment to upholding constitutional guarantees of press freedom, strengthening legal protections for journalists, and ensuring accountability for crimes against media professionals. The Centre also emphasised ethical journalism and conflict-sensitive reporting, urging media practitioners to maintain professionalism, accuracy, and fairness while using innovation to combat misinformation and hate speech.
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‎To further mark World Press Freedom Day, the IPC, with support from the International Freedom of Expression Exchange, launched a publication titled “The Unseen Enablers.” The report examines the role of non-state actors in threatening journalists’ safety and press freedom in Nigeria. It highlights how these actors undermine access to information and news dissemination, and seeks to promote collaborative action against their activities.
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‎“A peaceful future is only possible where the press is free, voices are heard, and truth prevails,” the IPC stated, urging government institutions, civil society, media owners, and the international community to work together to build a media landscape that supports peace, justice, and inclusive development.
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‎Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State