World Press Freedom Day 2026: NUJ Hails DSS, Seeks Police Cooperation For Journalists’ Safety

The Nigeria Union of Journalists has called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to emulate the improved conduct of the Department of State Services in respecting the rights of journalists, as the global community marks World Press Freedom Day 2026 under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security.”

In a statement issued on May 3, 2026, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, said the union notes with cautious optimism the recent improvement in relations between the DSS and the media. He said the noticeable decline in cases of intimidation, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of journalists represents a positive step toward strengthening press freedom and democratic accountability in Nigeria. Comrade Abdullahi commended the leadership of the DSS, particularly the Director-General, for fostering a more professional and constructive engagement with the media, adding that this progress demonstrates that cooperation between security agencies and the press is not only possible but essential in shaping a peaceful and secure society.

The union, however, warned that these gains must be sustained and deepened through continuous dialogue, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law. Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi stressed that press freedom remains a constitutional right and a cornerstone for achieving human rights, development, and national security. On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day 2026, he called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to emulate the positive example set by the DSS by respecting the rights of journalists and creating an enabling environment for the media to operate without fear or intimidation.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists also reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism and urged its members to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards. Comrade Abdullahi said that in promoting peace and development, journalists must remain guided by accuracy, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility to the public. He further noted that the union remains open to constructive engagement with all stakeholders in building a safer, freer, and more inclusive media environment, adding that the media and security institutions are not adversaries but partners in the collective effort to promote peace, protect human rights, and advance national development.

As the global community commemorated World Press Freedom Day 2026, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists called on all stakeholders, including government, security agencies, the media, and citizens, to renew their commitment to protecting press freedom as a vital pillar for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.