Journalists’ congress urges responsible reporting, stronger national security measures

The Congress of Journalists, after extensive deliberation on the security situation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and other parts of Nigeria, as well as wider issues affecting national development and public welfare, has issued a set of resolutions aimed at improving reporting standards, safety, and national security response.

The Congress urged journalists across the country to continue reporting security matters accurately, objectively, and responsibly in the public interest.

It stressed the importance of holding public institutions accountable while ensuring that all reports follow professional ethics and avoid misinformation.

It also advised members of the profession to prioritise their personal safety and that of their families while carrying out their duties.

Journalists were encouraged to remain vigilant, especially during movement to and from work, and to adopt necessary security precautions in their daily routines.

On the wider security situation in the country, the Congress called on security agencies to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity and improve the protection of lives and property. It said safeguarding citizens must remain a top priority for government and all security institutions at every level.

The Congress stresses the importance of accuracy and transparency in official security communications. Security agencies should ensure that information released to the public reflects realities on the ground and inspires public confidence. Matters involving kidnappings, abductions and other security breaches should be communicated with utmost clarity and honesty.

Implementation of the Safe School Initiative

The Congress calls on governments at all levels to fully implement the Safe School Initiative and ensure its benefits reach schools across the country. Government officials responsible for the programme should be held accountable for its implementation. The Congress notes that many attacks and abductions in schools could be prevented through effective application of existing security policies.

Protection of educational institutions

The Congress urges the Federal Government and state governments to prioritise the security of schools by providing adequate perimeter fencing, deploying security personnel (including members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps) and implementing other necessary protective measures. The security of pupils, students, teachers and educational facilities must be treated as a national priority.

Water supply challenges in the FCT

The Congress expresses concern about persistent water supply challenges affecting residents of the Federal Capital Territory. The Congress calls on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to address the situation urgently and ensure residents are not subjected to unnecessary hardship due to inadequate water supply.

Engagement between government and the media

The Congress calls on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, to strengthen engagement with journalists in the FCT and foster a closer working relationship with the media, particularly on matters relating to security reporting and public information management. Such engagement will enhance public understanding of government efforts and support more effective dissemination of information.

Capacity building on national security reporting

The Congress urges the National Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to organise regular seminars, workshops and conferences on national security reporting. These programmes will equip journalists with the knowledge and skills required to report security issues professionally, responsibly and safely.

Commitment

The Congress reaffirms its commitment to professionalism, public-interest journalism, and the promotion of peace, security and national development. Members pledge to continue upholding the highest standards of journalism while advocating policies and actions that enhance the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.

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