The National Security Adviser (NSA) to the president, Nuhu Ribadu, has called for greater collaboration and mutual understanding between the media and security agencies to strengthen Nigeria’s civic space and ensure journalists’ safety.
This is as media practitioners, civil rights activists and civil society organizations (CSO) called for better understanding for robust collaboration between the media and security agencies while discharging their respective obligations to the public.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at a high-level meeting with leaders of security sector, news media and other stakeholders on safety of journalists and civic space, organized by the Wole Soyinka Institute for Investigative Journalism (WSIIJ), the NSA underscored the pivotal role of the media in shaping public perception, fostering national unity, and holding institutions accountable.
The event themed ‘Promoting Mutual Understanding for a More Robust Civic Space and Journalists’ Safety’, was aimed at building consensus on ensuring the safety of journalists and fostering collaboration among security forces, media organizations, civil society, and the judiciary to create a safer and more inclusive civic space for all.
The NSA stressed the need for both parties to prioritize cooperation in navigating the challenges of contemporary governance and security.
Acknowledging the occasional tensions between journalists and security agencies, the NSA, who was represented by Maj. Gen. Samad Akesode emphasized the importance of fostering respect and dialogue to dispel misconceptions about the government’s intentions.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the media within the framework of existing laws while recognizing the global challenges journalists face, including harassment and intimidation.
Ribadu urged the media to embrace fact-based reporting, avoid sensationalism, and focus on solution-driven narratives that promote national cohesion and stability.
He described the media as critical gatekeepers whose influence could either incite conflict or promote peace, enjoining them to endeavor to highlight and contribute to building a hopeful, unified national narrative.
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In turn, he encouraged security agencies to recognize the media’s indispensable role in enhancing transparency and accountability.
He advocated for regular dialogue, capacity building, and self-regulation as key strategies for improving relationships between both sectors.
By prioritizing collaboration, the NSA asserted, it would be possible to create an environment where information flows freely, and both journalists and security personnel can thrive.
While reaffirming the government’s dedication to press freedom and openness, he noted that a thriving civic space is vital for Nigeria’s progress.
“The environment for free speech is intact, we all need ourselves and continue to build trust and confidence amongst ourselves but we need to check our excesses, with the same goal of national security in mind,” he said.
He called on all stakeholders to work collectively towards a society where diverse voices are heard, journalists operate safely, and democracy is strengthened, while emphasising that such commitment would uphold the principles of justice and foster national development.
Veteran journalist Richard Akintola described Ribadu’s approach as offering hope for better collaboration.
However, Danlami Modu and Tunde Alabi of AIT criticized the government’s commitment to media freedom, citing instances of harassment by security agencies.
They argued that the NSA’s professed ideals have yet to permeate the field level.
Shagari Sambo of Arise Television noted the sensitivity of national security issues, urging journalists to adhere to the rule of law while advocating for mutual respect.
Muskilu Mojeed, the Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times echoed the same sentiment, calling for reorientation of security agencies and top-level forums to improve media-security relations.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) urged the NSA to address the misuse of outdated laws and the criminalization of civil disputes, emphasizing the need for journalists to be equipped with legal knowledge.
Similarly, senior lawyer Yunis Abdulsalam stressed adherence to legal frameworks by both journalists and security agents to reduce conflicts.
Former Army spokesman, Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade (rtd) commended the initiative, noting improvements in media-security relations but calling for a mindset shift to avoid complicating crises.
Meanwhile, Abdulaziz Abdulazziz highlighted the current administration’s accessibility to the media, urging practitioners to embrace self-regulation and tackle the challenges posed by social media.
Motunrayo Alaka, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of WSCIJ highlighted alarming findings from the report Hushed Voices in an Election Year, which revealed that 90% of attacks on journalists occur during elections and protests.
According to her, State actors accounted for 68% of these violations, often in spaces meant to symbolize democracy, such as polling units and court premises.
She called for proactive measures to protect journalists and civic freedoms, emphasizing that a safer environment for reporters fosters public trust and strengthens democratic institutions.
The event underscored the importance of collective action to protect civic spaces, promote understanding, and ensure the safety of journalists, which are critical for Nigeria’s democratic growth.
Participants called for actionable solutions, fostering collaboration among media, security agencies, civil society, and the judiciary for a more inclusive and resilient civic environment.