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As the world marks World Press Freedom Day, the Programme Manager of Akuko Foundation, Victoria Ukpong, has called for stronger protections for journalists in Nigeria and beyond. In a press release made available to News Central TV, Ukpong urged governments, institutions, and the public to stand against harassment, intimidation, and unlawful actions targeting media professionals.
“As the world marks International Press Freedom Day today, Akuko Foundation joins voices around the globe in demanding an end to the harassment, arbitrary detention, and silencing of journalists,” the statement read.
“We stand in solidarity with the brave individuals and media organisations who risk their lives and liberty to shine a light on truth in the face of growing hostility and repression.”
The Foundation expressed concern over the increasing threats journalists face, noting that Nigeria is among the countries where media practitioners continue to be unfairly targeted.
“Across many countries—Nigeria included—journalists continue to be targeted simply for doing their jobs. From unlawful arrests to intimidation, smear campaigns, and restrictions on access to public information, these acts not only endanger lives but weaken democracy itself,” Ukpong said.
Akuko Foundation stressed that journalism is not a crime but rather a vital instrument for accountability and democratic health.
“We believe journalism is not a crime—it is a cornerstone of accountability. A free and independent press is essential for holding power to account, exposing corruption, informing the public, and upholding human rights. When journalists are attacked, society suffers.”
The organisation called on authorities and public institutions to take immediate steps in protecting journalists and supporting media freedom.
“We call on governments and law enforcement agencies to uphold their obligations under international law to protect journalists, ensure due process, and prosecute those who target them. We also urge public institutions—whether in government, business, or civil society—to embrace openness and see journalistic inquiry not as an adversarial force, but as a vital part of healthy democratic governance.”
Highlighting its commitment to media freedom, Ukpong reiterated the foundation’s ongoing efforts in empowering journalists and promoting transparency.
“At Akuko Foundation, we are committed to defending media freedom and empowering the next generation of storytellers.”
The statement further described Akuko Foundation as “a media advocacy and training organization dedicated to promoting press freedom, ethical journalism, and open information access.”
“We provide capacity-building programs for journalists, advocate for policies that safeguard the media, and support efforts to make public institutions more transparent and accountable.”
As part of its broader mission, the Foundation emphasised plans to increase engagement and visibility through strategic media partnerships.
“As we work toward securing foundational support, we will continue to engage with media platforms to strengthen visibility and amplify the voice of independent journalism.”
