NHRC partners NUJ to strengthen Press Freedom, unveils 30th Anniversary logo

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting journalists and defending press freedom as it marks 30 years of promoting human rights in Nigeria.

The Commission also unveiled its 30th anniversary logo during a media parley held on Monday at the Bukhari Bello Auditorium in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (OFR, SAN), described the media as an essential ally in advancing human rights, justice, and democracy in the country.

He highlighted the Commission’s efforts over the past three decades in defending citizens’ dignity despite challenges such as limited resources and increasing rights violations.

“We recognize the indispensable role the media has played not just as watchdogs of society, but as critical partners in advancing the cause of justice, equality, and human dignity,” Ojukwu said.

“As we commemorate the 2025 International Day to End Impunity Against Journalists, we must also confront the troubling realities facing our media community.

Attacks on journalists are attacks on our democracy and on the public’s right to know.”

Dr. Ojukwu further revealed that the Commission would intensify collaboration with media bodies, civil society organizations, and international partners, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), to strengthen mechanisms for documenting violations and ensuring accountability for abuses against journalists.

Representing the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, the Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, commended the NHRC for its advocacy but called for more decisive action to tackle rising cases of harassment and violence against journalists.

“The NUJ maintains zero tolerance for attacks on journalists. However, impunity persists, and this undermines not only the safety of journalists but the very foundation of our democracy,” she said. “The Commission must go beyond statements and fully exercise its investigative powers to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.”

Ike also emphasized the need for closer collaboration among the NHRC, security agencies, and the judiciary to ensure swift accountability for violations of press freedom.

The event also featured an engagement session on Media Literacy and Human Rights Reporting, facilitated by the United Nations Information Center (UNIC). Journalists exchanged experiences and explored strategies to improve accuracy, quality, and visibility in rights-based reporting.

As the NHRC enters its 30th year, Dr. Ojukwu reiterated the Commission’s dedication to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and holding institutions accountable.

“Your voice is an inevitable foundation of our constitutional democracy,” he told journalists. “Together, let us deepen the culture of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in Nigeria.”

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!