The AVOCATS SANS FRONTIERES (ASF) has announced plans to collaborate with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to enhance digital rights in Nigeria.
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This announcement was made during a courtesy visit by a delegation led by board member Ivan Paneff to the NUJ National Secretariat on Monday.
Ivan highlighted that the e-Rights Project will create mechanisms to ensure independent and fair access to justice, safeguarding the fundamental human rights of journalists in Nigeria. Additionally, the project aims to provide legal aid and support to vulnerable individuals, such as victims of human rights violations, both within national and international jurisdictions.
Speaking at the ongoing National Conference, he emphasized the importance of capacity building through training and collaboration with local partners. He specifically pointed to the role of the International Institute of Nigeria (IIN) in advancing digital rights and data security, underscoring the value of such partnerships in promoting a more secure and just environment.
He said “It is important for the citizen with your help or assistance to know how to protect their electronic rights and the dangers and advantages of using digital tools ”
” I learnt you have a school here and would like to hear you speak on that and we see how we can associate with the school for the next future because the guideline of the project is to ensure sustainability ”
Mr Ivan advised journalists to check their sources while using Artificial Intelligence to generate their data.
He said” In other words AI is a very good tool for us but ethics of journalism are necessary”
Also speaking, the Country Director Avocats San Frontieres Mrs Angela Uzoma disclosed the continued collaboration with the NUJ with a component of the project focusing on press freedom hence the concept of digital Rights for the press.
She said” Our focus on the project is to ensure safe space online for people to engage particularly Journalists knowing the crucial role journalists play in every democracy and also see what transpired lead up the general elections in Nigeria and as we continue to monitor what is going on, holding government accountable we see how the digital space plays a key role in ensuring that they have space to speak up for journalists to put up their report on cases of harassment, arrest, intimidation against journalists.”
“One of the key initiatives we’re currently working on at the E-Right Project is providing legal aid to journalists. During our recent meeting with the immediate past president of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), we urged the NUJ to refer cases of harassment involving journalists to us. We have a dedicated team of lawyers trained to handle such cases, and so far, we have successfully taken up cases in Lagos and Kano.
We also encourage journalists to carefully select legal representation and consider partnering with organizations like ours. It’s important to remain patient throughout the process, as the pressure exerted by executives who may force an apology can have a chilling effect on journalism in the country, unless, of course, the story was fabricated.”
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has expressed his gratitude to Avocats Sans Frontières (ASF) for their visit and investment in Nigerian journalists. He commended the organization’s commitment to supporting the development of journalism in the country.
Comrade Yahya assured ASF that the NUJ will lead efforts to raise awareness about the project. He also encouraged ASF to collaborate with the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) in Nigeria for enhanced capacity building for journalists and emphasized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.
As the umbrella body for all practicing journalists in Nigeria, with 36 state councils, the NUJ is committed to its role and will continue to work closely with ASF to further the objectives of this partnership.
I would like to sincerely thank you for your investment in Nigeria. As you may be aware, the Cyber Crime Act is one legislation that significantly impacts the work of journalists in the country. I believe it is high time we come together to advocate for a review of this act to ensure it does not impede our ability to perform our duties as journalists.
Furthermore, I want to assure you that we are fully committed to filing cases related to digital issues with your organization. I am confident that your legal team is well-equipped and ready to support and defend journalists in these matters.
We also have the Institute for International Journalism (IIJ), an arm of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), dedicated to training and retraining journalists across the country.
The space here is vast, and in terms of sustainability, we are committed to doing everything within our power to ensure the continued success of what you have started.
As fellow journalists, we are grateful for your support and are eager to work together to advance the profession in Nigeria.
The IIJ, an institute under the National Union of Journalists (NUJ), is dedicated to training and retraining journalists across the country. With its expansive land and resources, we are committed to ensuring the sustainability of the programs and initiatives being undertaken here.
As part of our efforts to enhance the institute, we are exploring ways to restructure and take ownership of our own radio station. This radio station will play a critical role in providing practical learning experiences for individuals entering the profession. Furthermore, it will serve as a platform to strengthen the role of journalists in Nigeria—empowering them to protect and promote the rights of citizens, hold the government accountable, and drive positive change in society.
We want to assure you that the councils involved in your project will work closely with you to bring it to fruition. The Chairman of the NUJ FCT is present here, and we are confident that with your dedication, your organization will achieve its goals. Together, we will work towards creating a sustainable future for journalism in Nigeria.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that citizens fully understand their electronic rights, with the NUJ committed to playing a leading role in raising awareness and creating greater visibility on the issue.
The gathering was also graced by key figures, including the National Secretary of the Union, Achike Chudu; Deputy National Secretary; NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike; Vice Chairman, Yahaya Ndambabo; Secretary of the Council, Jide Oyekunle; along with other members of the AFS France delegation.
