World Press Freedom Day 2026: Nigerian Journalists Urged to Defend Truth Amid Rising Threats

By Shu’aibu Usman Leman

As the world marks World Press Freedom Day today, May 3, 2026, a strong call has been made for the protection of journalists and the preservation of press freedom as essential pillars for peace, development, and national stability in Nigeria.

In a reflection on this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace:

Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” media practitioners have been challenged to recognise the critical role journalism plays in sustaining democratic values. The message underscores that peace cannot thrive in an environment where truth is suppressed, stressing that genuine stability is built on transparency, accountability, and open discourse.

According to Shu’aibu Usman Leman, a former National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the safety of journalists is directly tied to the health of the nation. He noted that a silenced press creates dangerous gaps in credible information, allowing misinformation, distrust, and conflict to flourish.

Reflecting on the NUJ’s 70th anniversary commemorated last year, Leman highlighted his book, Bleeding Ink, which documents the struggles and sacrifices of Nigerian journalists.

He explained that the publication serves not just as a historical account, but as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges facing media professionals across the country.

“The stories captured reveal a troubling pattern of intimidation, unlawful detention, and harassment. These are not isolated incidents but indicators of a deeper systemic problem where truth-telling is often treated as a threat rather than a service to society,” he stated.

He warned that in a country grappling with security and peacebuilding challenges, suppressing the media weakens national stability.

According to him, when journalists are forced into silence, public trust erodes, institutions become fragile, and the risk of conflict increases.

Leman also expressed concern over the role of some security agencies, alleging that institutions meant to protect citizens are sometimes implicated in acts of intimidation against journalists. He added that the failure to prosecute offenders has fostered a culture of impunity.

“How can a nation build peace when those responsible for informing the public operate under constant fear?” he queried, insisting that press freedom remains a cornerstone of sustainable peace and development.

Despite these challenges, he commended Nigerian journalists for their resilience and commitment to ethical reporting, even under difficult conditions. He, however, stressed that courage should not be a requirement for survival in the profession.

He called on the government to move beyond rhetoric by ensuring accountability for attacks on journalists, while urging lawmakers to review and reform laws that are often misused to suppress legitimate reporting. Security agencies, he added, must refocus on their primary duty of protecting citizens, including media professionals.

As Nigeria joins the global community in commemorating the day, stakeholders agree that safeguarding press freedom is not optional but necessary. Without it, there can be no meaningful human rights protection, sustainable development, or lasting peace.

“The time to act is now,” Leman concluded, emphasizing that a peaceful future depends on a free, safe, and independent press.