The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has underscored the indispensable role of a responsible and ethical media in strengthening democracy, protecting human rights and promoting sustainable national development, urging journalists to remain committed to professionalism and public interest.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu, made the call in a goodwill message at the maiden edition of the Emporium Leadership Lecture and Awards 2026 and the unveiling of the Special 10th Anniversary Commemorative Edition of Emporium Magazine, published by Royal Prince Media Services, alongside the 10th anniversary celebration of Emporium Reporters Online, held at the Bukhari Bello Auditorium, NHRC Headquarters, Abuja.
Ojukwu, who was represented by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the Commission, Mrs. Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, congratulated the management, staff and stakeholders of Emporium Reporters Online and Emporium Magazine on the decade-long milestone, describing it as a testament to resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment to journalism, public enlightenment and the promotion of issues that shape society.
He said ten years of consistent media practice reflected the organisation’s dedication to informing, educating and enlightening the public, noting that these values remain essential ingredients for national growth and democratic development.
According to him, the National Human Rights Commission remained unwavering in its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote democratic values, civic engagement, responsible communication, human rights advocacy and sustainable national development.
The NHRC Executive Secretary stressed that a vibrant and responsible media plays a critical role in strengthening democratic institutions, amplifying the voices of citizens, promoting accountability and fostering a culture of respect for human rights and the rule of law.
He described the institution of the Emporium Leadership Lecture as a commendable initiative that provided an important platform for robust intellectual discourse on issues of national importance.
Ojukwu noted that such engagements contribute significantly to shaping public policy, encouraging informed citizenship and inspiring visionary leadership capable of addressing contemporary challenges confronting the nation.
He further applauded the organisers for recognising deserving personalities and institutions through the Emporium Leadership Awards, saying the initiative promotes a culture of excellence by celebrating integrity, innovation, exemplary service and commitment to societal advancement.
According to him, sustainable national progress can only be achieved when citizens, public institutions, the media and government work collaboratively to uphold human dignity, justice, equality and fundamental freedoms.
He therefore commended Royal Prince Media Services for creating a platform that celebrates leadership, excellence and service to humanity while promoting constructive national conversations on democratic governance and national development.
The NHRC boss also congratulated the Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Prince Media Services, Mr. Lukman Laleye Babalola, and the entire management team on the successful hosting of the maiden leadership lecture and the 10th anniversary celebration of both Emporium Reporters Online and Emporium Magazine.
Earlier, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba-Ndace, urged journalists to uphold professionalism, credibility and ethical reporting, warned that misinformation, disinformation and unethical reporting pose serious threats to national cohesion and democratic development.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion and Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Akinlabi Dare, represented by Mr. Jonathan Tamari, commended Royal Prince Media Services for sustaining the initiative, describing the Emporium Leadership Lecture and Awards as an important platform for celebrating visionary leadership, excellence and impactful service across different sectors.
In his welcome address, the Publisher of Emporium Reporters Online and Emporium Magazine, Mr. Lukman Laleye Babalola, said the lecture, themed “From Clicks to Credibility: Digital Media’s Role in Deepening Nigeria’s Democracy,” was conceived to encourage conversations on responsible digital journalism and strengthen democracy while celebrating individuals and organisations whose leadership continues to inspire national development.
The event attracted senior government officials, media executives, security chiefs, civil society organisations and development partners, and featured the presentation of Emporium Leadership Awards to distinguished Nigerians and organisations for their outstanding contributions to leadership, governance, media development, security, business, human capital development and social impact.
