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By Correspondent in Lokoja.
As journalists in Nigeria joined their counterparts across the globe to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, the Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on government at all levels to prioritise funding for media organisations and improve the welfare of journalists.
The Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Ademu Seidu Haruna, made the appeal in a statement issued by the State Secretary, Comrade Atuluku Samuel, PhD,in Lokoja,stressing that adequate investment in the media sector is critical to enhancing productivity and sustaining a vibrant and independent press.
Alhaji Ademu noted that a truly free press cannot thrive in an environment where journalists operate without proper welfare packages and where media houses lack the financial and technological capacity to meet modern demands.
He pointed out that the evolving media landscape presents numerous challenges, urging governments, media owners and other stakeholders to equip media organisations,especially government-owned outlets,with up-to-date technological tools.
The NUJ chairman specifically appealed to the Kogi State Government to upgrade facilities in its media establishments, including Radio Kogi and the Graphic Newspaper, increase funding for the State Ministry of Information, and consider the establishment of a state-owned television station to broaden information dissemination.
While acknowledging the cordial relationship between the media and the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Ademu commended the governor for maintaining openness with journalists.
He, however, called for deeper collaboration and more institutional support for the union.
“In Kogi State, press freedom under Governor Ododo has been impressive, and the relationship between government and the press remains cordial.
“However, the NUJ requires a more enabling environment to function effectively,” he said.
The chairman further urged the state government to undertake a “signature project” for the NUJ, noting that existing union facilities are in a state of disrepair and require urgent intervention.
He emphasised that press freedom goes beyond access to information, stressing the need for journalists to operate without fear of harassment, intimidation or threats to their safety.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, Ademu said it underscores the protection of human rights and the safety of lives and property, particularly for media practitioners.
He assured that the NUJ in Kogi State would continue to collaborate with relevant authorities, especially security agencies, to safeguard journalists and strengthen the practice of responsible journalism across the state.
Our correspondent reports that World Press Freedom Day is marked every year on May 3.
The day was proclaimed by the United Nations following a recommendation from UNESCO in 1993.
It is set aside to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom,the idea that the media should operate independently without censorship or interference.and to assess the state of press freedom globally, highlighting challenges such as harassment, attacks, or restrictions faced by journalists.
The focus of the Day is also to
defend the media from threats to their independence and
pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
