The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for constitutional guarantees for the safety of journalists and the establishment of a Media Bailout Fund to support struggling independent media organizations.
The call was made on Friday in Akure during the South West Zonal Public Hearing on the review of the 1999 Constitution, organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review.
Represented by Ondo State NUJ Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi emphasized the media’s critical role in promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability.
He warned that threats to press freedom and economic challenges facing media houses could undermine national stability and governance.
The NUJ proposed constitutional amendments to ensure journalist safety, freedom of expression, and media independence, alongside a transparently managed bailout fund to rescue financially distressed outlets.
The union urged lawmakers to adopt international best practices to protect press freedom and strengthen democratic values in Nigeria.
