CISLAC Calls for Better Pay, Protection for Nigerian Journalists

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged the Federal Government and media stakeholders to improve the welfare and safety of journalists, warning that poor working conditions and rising threats could undermine press freedom in Nigeria.

The call came as the world marked World Press Freedom Day 2026, with CISLAC stressing that journalists must be adequately protected and fairly compensated to perform their watchdog role effectively.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation said the media remains central to democratic governance, accountability and national development.

Rafsanjani noted that while legal protections for press freedom are important, the economic realities facing journalists also require urgent attention.

“Journalists should be able to carry out their professional duties without fear, intimidation or economic hardship,” he said, adding that poor remuneration and unsafe conditions could compromise editorial independence.

CISLAC warned that any attempt to weaken the media would erode public trust and embolden corruption, describing the press as a vital tool for amplifying citizens’ voices and holding leaders accountable.

The group also called for full compliance with the Freedom of Information Act, noting that access to public information is critical to promoting transparency and countering misinformation.

According to Rafsanjani, citizens who follow due process must be allowed unhindered access to government-held information.

The organisation raised concerns about the state of press freedom in Nigeria, citing recurring cases of harassment, arbitrary arrests and attacks on journalists. It also pointed to the misuse of laws such as the Cybercrimes Act to intimidate media practitioners.

CISLAC said weak accountability mechanisms have allowed perpetrators of such acts to operate with impunity, forcing many journalists into self-censorship.

“Restrictions on press freedom not only weaken democracy but also fuel corruption and undermine public confidence in institutions,” Rafsanjani said.

The group called on the government to review laws that hinder media practice and to strengthen legal protections for journalists, while ensuring that all attacks on media workers are promptly investigated and prosecuted.

It also advocated improved safety measures, including training on digital security and conflict-sensitive reporting, as well as the establishment of rapid response mechanisms for journalists under threat.

CISLAC further urged authorities to promote editorial independence and support policies that would strengthen the sustainability of independent media without undue interference.

The organisation emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between government, civil society, media organisations and the private sector to create a more enabling environment for journalism.

Reaffirming its commitment, CISLAC said it would continue to monitor press freedom violations and support journalists across the country, noting that a free and independent press remains indispensable to Nigeria’s democratic growth.