IPC-SPJ Hub seeka stronger protection for journalists

The International Press Centre, IPC, has renewed its call for sustained efforts to safeguard the rights and safety of journalists across Nigeria.

In a statement issued through its Safety and Protection of Journalists, SPJ, Hub, on Wednesday to commemorate the International Human Rights Day, IPC noted that attacks on journalists have continued to be on the increase.

The Hub’s documentation indicates that between 2020 and 2024, incidents of harassment, assault and other violations increased by at least 40 percent.

In the statement, the IPC Executive Director Lanre Arogundade said the theme serves as a reminder that press freedom must remain a priority for media stakeholders and policymakers.

“The theme for IHRD 2025 is a wake-up call. We cannot turn a blind eye to the fundamental rights of journalists. We must continue to attach the highest priority to safeguarding press freedom in Nigeria. We oppose any action, legislation, regulation or political pressure that limits freedom of the press,” Arogundade said.

He added that the challenges confronting Nigerian journalists today demand more urgent action.

“These are trying times, and there is more to do to create an enabling environment for journalists. It is more important than ever that the rights of journalists are not just words on paper, but are seen, felt and experienced.”

The IPC-SPJ Hub urged media organizations, civil society and authorities to intensify efforts to promote and defend the rights of journalists as essential to democracy and human rights.

International Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10 to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

This year’s global theme, ‘Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials’ underscores the importance of rights that shape daily life, including freedom of expression, access to information, dignity at work and protection from oppression.