The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has called for collaboration between security agencies and the media to ensure the safety and freedom for journalists.
The assertion was made by the National Security Adviser, represented by the Director of Communications, Office of the National Security Adviser, Major General Samad Akesode.
Speaking at the Wole Soyinka Center for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) high-level stakeholders meeting, he acknowledged the occasional tension between the media and security agencies, noting that this should hinder Nigeria’s civic space.
The NSA underscored capacity-building initiatives as a means to ensure trust and reduced tension while stating that cooperation is vital for a safer civic space.
Ribadu had told the stakeholders that dialogue between security agencies and the media is very crucial.
NPO reports that the Wole Soyinka for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) had last week Thursday organized a high-level meeting with stakeholders in Abuja under its #CivicSpaceGuard project.
The event themed ‘Promoting Mutual Understanding for a More Robust Civic Space and Journalists’ Safety’, aimed at improving journalists’ safety & protecting Nigeria’s civic space.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director, WSCIJ, Motunrayo Alaka, noted that journalists are central to accountability and transparency however, they face immense risks.
According to report from the WSCIJ’s 2023 Journalism & Civic Space Status, 90% of attacks on journalists happen while on duty, with polling units & protest grounds being the deadliest hotspots.
Alaka has therefore called for collaboration to ensure journalists can work without fear, hence the need for stakeholder engagement.
Similarly, the Chairperson, Editorial Board of Blue Print, Zainab Okino, highlighted the psychological intimidation journalists face through threatening calls from security agents,
This, according to her leads to self-censorship.
NPO reports that the meeting between senior representatives from Nigeria’s security agencies, judiciary, media organisations, and civil society organisations in Nigeria is designed to address critical issues surrounding journalists’ safety, press freedom, and other civil liberties.