World Press Freedom Day: Stakeholders Hail Media Role in Security and Sustained Democracy
By Missang AKPET
The Cross River State government says responsible journalism and constructive media engagement is part of the reasons why the state remains one of the safest and most peaceful in Nigeria.
The Cross River State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang stated this during a journalist to mark the 2026 World Press Freedom Day in Calabar.
Ekpang who encouraged media practitioners to maintain ethical standards.said consistent media reportage had helped Governor Bassey Otu earn Man of the Year awards from notable media organisations.
Referencing UNESCO’s 2026 theme, 'Shaping a Future at Peace', Ekpang refered to journalists as guardians of democracy, voice of the voiceless and the bridge between citizens and leadership while pledgeding a conducive environment for journalism to thrive and continued support for NUJ activities.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalist (NUJ) Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey in her opening address said, press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy and human rights stating that attacks on journalists amount to a violation of fundamental human rights.
The chairman hinted that a free and responsible press remains a vital instrument for fostering peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring accountability, especially in Nigeria’s complex and evolving security landscape.
She urged them to use the gathering to unwind and appreciate themselves despite the demands of the profession.
Also, the head of department of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Calabar, Dr. Kwita Dan-Obo, advocated for constant training and retraining to meet up with the ever evolving challenges in the media space.
She called for deeper collaboration between academia and newsrooms to train the next generation, stressing that journalism remains a powerful tool for societal transformation and democratic governance.
On his part, the state police public relations officer (PPRO) Cross River State Police Command Sunday Eitohkpa said the role of the media in maintaining a peaceful society cannot be overemphasized as they remain watchdogs of the society.
He thanked the NUJ chairman as well as the entire council for making his job I. The state a bit easier while pledging continuos collaboration and synergy between the state police command and the union.
