The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) will on Saturday, May 3, 2025, commemorate International Press Week with a high-profile event in Abuja to honour journalists and stakeholders who have championed press freedom, ethical governance, and socio-economic development.
The event, scheduled to take place at the majestic banquet hall of Barcelona Hotel by 5:30 p.m., will celebrate the contributions of media professionals while also spotlighting challenges facing journalism practice in Nigeria.
According to a statement signed by the National Secretary of the Union, Achike Chude, the annual occasion goes beyond celebration, serving as a platform for advocacy, reflection, and the promotion of democratic values.
The NUJ stated that press freedom remained a vital pillar of any democratic society, noting that the functioning of the press often reflects the health of governance. “If the press is not free, then society is in shackles,” the Union emphasized.
Speaking ahead of the event, the NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to ethical journalism and professionalism. He stated, “Press freedom is a catalyst for good governance, and good governance makes dividends of democracy available to citizens in real terms.”
A major highlight of the event is the Good Governance Award, which aims to encourage accountability, transparency, and service delivery among elected and appointed officials. The awards are also designed to promote a culture of responsible leadership and informed civic engagement.
Award categories included Defender of Press Freedom, Lifetime Achievement, Peace Building and Rural Transformation (particularly in road infrastructure), and the Touchbearers Award, which recognises journalists who have endured threats and harassment in the line of duty.
The Union noted that the presence of key policymakers and state actors at the event will further underscore the importance of synergy between government and the media in sustaining democratic values.
The 2025 International Press Week celebration promised to be an inspiring evening of recognition, dialogue, and renewed commitment to press freedom in Nigeria.
