The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos, through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has called for renewed commitment to strengthening press freedom and ensuring the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
The IPC made the call in a statement on Sunday to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), with the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace.”
The centre noted that the theme highlights the vital role of a free, independent and responsible media in promoting peace, democratic governance and social cohesion.
It recalled that World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993, is observed annually on May 3 to remind governments of their obligation to uphold press freedom and provide a safe environment for media practice.
According to IPC, its SPJ Hub documented no fewer than 23 cases of attacks involving 28 journalists and two media organisations in 2025.
It said the cases ranged from threats to life, abduction, unlawful arrest and detention, to harassment, physical assault and murder.
The centre added that 23 male journalists, three female journalists and two unspecified cases were affected, with online media recording the highest number of attacks at 16, followed by broadcast with 10 and print with one.
The Executive Director of IPC, Mr Lanre Arogundade, said the media remained a critical pillar in promoting truth, accountability and inclusive public discourse.
“At a time of growing conflicts, misinformation and shrinking civic space, journalism plays a key role in amplifying marginalised voices and supporting peaceful societies,” Arogundade said.
He, however, expressed concern over the increasing threats to journalists, noting that harassment, unlawful detention and violent attacks undermine both press freedom and citizens’ access to credible information.
“The safety of journalists must be prioritised by governments, security agencies and other stakeholders,” he said.
Arogundade called for stronger legal protections, enforcement of constitutional guarantees of press freedom and accountability for crimes against media professionals.
The IPC also emphasised the need for ethical journalism and responsible reporting, particularly in conflict-sensitive situations.
It urged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy and fairness, while leveraging innovation to tackle misinformation and hate speech.
The centre further called on governments, civil society organisations, media owners and the international community to collaborate in building a media landscape that promotes peace, justice and inclusive development.
As part of activities marking the day, 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 undermining press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria.
According to IPC, the publication seeks to deepen understanding and encourage collective action to address the challenges posed by such actors.
It stressed that a peaceful future can only be achieved where the press is free, diverse voices are heard and truth prevails.
