The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the Nigerian government to implement urgent reforms to protect journalists and strengthen media independence, as the world commemorates World Press Freedom Day 2026.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation aligned with this year’s theme by UNESCO, “Shaping a Future of Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security.” CISLAC stressed that a free and independent media is critical to democracy, accountability, and national development.
Rafsanjani described the press as a watchdog that exposes corruption, amplifies citizens’ voices, and supports informed decision-making. He warned that curbing press freedom weakens democratic institutions, encourages corruption, and erodes public trust.
The organisation called for full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act, noting that it guarantees citizens access to public information.
According to CISLAC, proper enforcement of the law would help tackle misinformation while enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
CISLAC also highlighted the need to improve journalists’ welfare, stressing that poor working conditions and economic hardship could undermine professionalism and independence. It called for better remuneration and improved working standards for media practitioners.
Raising concerns about global trends, the group cited a report by Reporters Without Borders indicating that press freedom has declined to its lowest level in 25 years, with many countries classified as having difficult or severe conditions for journalists.
In Nigeria, despite a slight improvement in global rankings to 112th position, CISLAC noted that the media environment remains restrictive. It pointed to cases of harassment, arbitrary arrests, and attacks on journalists, often linked to security agencies.
The misuse of laws such as the Cybercrimes Act and defamation statutes to intimidate reporters was also highlighted.
The group further warned that weak accountability systems have enabled perpetrators of attacks on journalists to act with impunity, contributing to self-censorship and shrinking civic space.
CISLAC called on authorities to review laws that limit press freedom, ensure thorough investigations into attacks on journalists, and prosecute offenders regardless of status. It also urged the protection of editorial independence, promotion of media diversity, and introduction of policies to support sustainable journalism without interference.
Additionally, the organisation advocated improved safety measures, including digital security training, conflict-sensitive reporting, and the establishment of rapid response mechanisms for journalists under threat.
It emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among government, civil society, media organisations, and the private sector to create a conducive environment for journalism.
CISLAC also urged Nigeria to support global initiatives to combat disinformation, ensure responsible use of artificial intelligence in media, and enhance protection for journalists, especially in conflict areas.
Reaffirming its commitment to press freedom, the organisation expressed solidarity with journalists worldwide and called for renewed efforts to safeguard media independence.
“A free press is not a luxury but a necessity for democracy, development, and peace,” the statement concluded.