ABUJA — The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for improved relations with the media, describing the development as a critical step toward strengthening press freedom and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, noted a decline in cases of intimidation, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of journalists, attributing the progress to more professional engagement by the DSS leadership.
He said the 2026 theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” reflects Nigeria’s realities and highlights the essential role of journalism in fostering peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring accountability, particularly in a complex security environment.
The NUJ praised the Director-General of the DSS for promoting constructive collaboration with the media, stressing that such cooperation is vital to building a peaceful and secure society.
However, the union cautioned that the gains must be sustained through continuous dialogue, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law. It emphasised that press freedom remains a constitutional right and a cornerstone for advancing human rights, development, and national security.
The NUJ also called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to emulate the DSS by respecting journalists’ rights and ensuring a safe and enabling environment for media practice.
Reaffirming its commitment to responsible journalism, the union urged media professionals to uphold the highest ethical standards, emphasising accuracy, fairness, and accountability in their work.
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“The media and security institutions are not adversaries, but partners in the collective effort to promote peace, protect human rights, and advance national development,” Abdullahi stated.
The NUJ further called on government, security agencies, the media, and citizens to renew their commitment to safeguarding press freedom as a vital pillar for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
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