The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have agreed to deepen their partnership to improve the quality of migration reporting in Nigeria through specialised training, research and knowledge sharing.

The collaboration aims to equip journalists with a better understanding of migration issues, including the difference between regular and irregular migration, while encouraging more accurate and ethical reporting on a subject that affects thousands of Nigerians every year.

Why it matters

Migration remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing social and economic issues, with many young people risking dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities abroad.

Media experts say accurate reporting can help people understand legal migration pathways, the dangers of human trafficking and irregular migration, and government policies designed to protect migrants.

During a courtesy visit to the NUJ Secretariat in Lagos on Tuesday, IOM’s Chief of Media and Communications, Rajat Madhok, said the organisation wants to expand its engagement with Nigerian journalists.

“We are here to take further steps in our engagement with journalists,” Madhok said.

“We are looking at opportunities beyond what we have done in the past because we are interested in telling the world positive stories of successful migration while also addressing the challenges associated with both regular and irregular migration.

“Through this, journalists will be better equipped with the knowledge needed to help the public make informed decisions.

“This partnership is important and by working together, we can effectively highlight these critical issues.”

NUJ calls for stronger capacity building

Responding on behalf of the union, NUJ Deputy President, Dr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Oyetunde, said the initiative comes at a time when many journalists need a deeper understanding of migration issues.

“Apart from journalists who specifically report on migration, many media practitioners do not fully understand the distinction between regular and irregular migration,” she said.

“We need to prioritise capacity building to enable journalists report migration issues accurately, responsibly and professionally.

“Irregular migration has claimed many lives, as countless people continue to embark on dangerous journeys through illegal routes in search of better opportunities,” Oyetunde said.

Media development specialists have long argued that better-informed journalists are more likely to challenge misinformation, explain complex migration policies and provide balanced reporting that supports evidence-based public debate.

Migration experts also say responsible journalism can reduce the spread of false information often circulated by human traffickers and illegal migration networks, while highlighting legitimate opportunities available through lawful migration channels.

What the partnership will deliver

Both organisations agreed to work towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will provide a formal framework for long-term cooperation.

They also proposed creating a tripartite committee involving institutions of higher learning, the IOM and the NUJ to coordinate research, training and knowledge sharing.

The programme is expected to strengthen journalists’ understanding of migration governance, immigration laws, anti-human trafficking legislation, privacy and data protection regulations, and other legal and policy issues that influence migration reporting.

Industry perspective

Media practitioners say specialised reporting has become increasingly important as migration stories grow more complex and involve humanitarian, legal, economic and security dimensions.

Experts believe stronger collaboration between journalists, international organisations and academic institutions could improve the quality of public information and encourage more responsible conversations about migration in Nigeria.

What’s next?

The proposed Memorandum of Understanding is expected to formalise the partnership and pave the way for training programmes, workshops and collaborative research projects.

If implemented, the initiative could help build a new generation of journalists with the skills needed to report migration stories accurately, ethically and in the public interest.

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojishola Lasbat Meranda, has urged journalists to remain committed to ethical reporting and continue holding leaders accountable, describing responsible journalism as essential to strengthening democracy and national development.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Press Week organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Correspondents’ Chapel, Lagos State Council, Meranda said the media must continue to play its constitutional role in promoting transparency and good governance.

The event, held at the NERDC Conference Centre in Agidingbi, Ikeja, brought together journalists, government officials, business leaders, academics and civil society organisations under the theme, “Journalism and Nation Building: Promoting Accountability and Good Governance.”

Why this matters

The call comes at a time when Nigeria is preparing for the 2027 general elections amid growing concerns about misinformation, political polarisation and declining public trust in institutions.

Media experts say journalism will play a decisive role in shaping public discourse, helping citizens make informed decisions and ensuring elected officials remain accountable.

Addressing participants, Meranda described the conference theme as both timely and significant.

She urged journalists to remain faithful to the ethics of the profession while ensuring public office holders are held accountable for their actions.

According to her, a vibrant and responsible media remains one of democracy’s strongest safeguards and contributes directly to sustainable national development.

Journalism remains democracy’s watchdog

Delivering the keynote lecture, media scholar Dr. Festus Oshoba described journalism as more than a profession, calling it a public trust that underpins democracy and nation building.

Tracing the evolution of journalism from ancient civilisations through the invention of the printing press to today’s digital era, he said the profession has consistently served as society’s primary mechanism for informing citizens and scrutinising those in power.

He explained that Nigeria’s journalism history dates back to 1859 with the establishment of Iwe Iroyin by Reverend Henry Townsend during the colonial era.

Over the decades, he said, the Nigerian media evolved from missionary publications into a powerful force that championed the country’s independence movement before becoming one of democracy’s most important institutions.

According to Oshoba, journalism contributes to nation building by informing citizens, educating the public about civic responsibilities, setting the national agenda, promoting social inclusion and encouraging participation in governance.

He argued that without credible journalism, democratic institutions become weaker because citizens are deprived of accurate information needed to make informed choices.

Media has constitutional responsibility

Dr. Oshoba reminded journalists that Section 22 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) assigns the media the responsibility of holding government accountable to the people.

He described the press as the “Fourth Estate” whose duty includes exposing corruption, investigating abuse of power, verifying facts, defending public interest and strengthening the rule of law.

He said responsible journalism creates an environment where leaders are compelled to act transparently because they know their actions are subject to public scrutiny.

According to him, accountability remains the cornerstone of good governance, making investigative journalism one of democracy’s most valuable tools.

Technology changing journalism

The keynote speaker acknowledged that journalism has changed dramatically because of digital technology and social media.

While these innovations have expanded access to information and encouraged citizen journalism, he warned that they have also fuelled misinformation, disinformation and declining ethical standards.

He said journalists must embrace digital innovation and artificial intelligence while maintaining professional values of accuracy, fairness, verification and balance.

Dr. Oshoba also identified political interference, attacks on press freedom, economic hardship facing media organisations and safety risks confronting journalists as major threats to independent journalism.

He recommended stronger legal protections for press freedom, continuous professional training, improved ethical standards and closer collaboration between media organisations, civil society and government institutions.

Lessons from Nigeria

To illustrate journalism’s impact, Oshoba cited several examples from Nigeria.

These included investigations into the 2016 budget padding controversy, extensive media coverage of the #EndSARS protests, reporting on electoral violence before the 2019 general elections, scrutiny of COVID-19 intervention funds and investigative reports highlighting environmental degradation in the Niger Delta.

He said these examples demonstrate journalism’s ability to expose wrongdoing, promote transparency and influence public policy.

According to him, journalism succeeds when it empowers citizens with credible information rather than sensational headlines.

Business leader: Credibility is journalism’s greatest asset

Chairman of the occasion and Chairman/Managing Director of BOCA Energy Resources Ltd and BOCA IT Systems Ltd, Engr. James Ukachukwu, said the success of both journalism and business depends on one critical value—trust.

He described credible journalism as the foundation upon which democratic societies thrive.

“If crude oil powers economies and technology powers innovation, then credible journalism powers democracy. Without trustworthy information, societies drift; with it, nations progress.”

Ukachukwu said credibility is the shared currency of journalists and business leaders.

“In business, once trust is lost, customers walk away. In journalism, once credibility is compromised, audiences do the same. Trust, therefore, remains our shared capital.”

He encouraged journalists to embrace innovation without sacrificing professional ethics.

“Technology will continue to evolve, but ethical journalism must remain constant.”

He added that BOCA Energy Resources Ltd and BOCA IT Systems Ltd would continue supporting initiatives that promote professional journalism, media excellence and informed public discourse.

NUJ Chairman reminds journalists of constitutional duty

Earlier, Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Lagos State Council, Comrade Abraham Akpabio, said the annual Press Week was organised to stimulate conversations around governance, leadership and national development.

He noted that with preparations gradually gathering momentum for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, journalists have a greater responsibility to promote national unity and strengthen democratic institutions.

Akpabio reminded journalists that Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) mandates the media to hold government accountable on behalf of the people.

“We must help keep our country and citizens intact and united, and ensure that Nigeria is not a federation of ethnicities but rather a nation of citizens.”

He thanked the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists at both national and Lagos State levels, members of the planning committee, patrons, corporate organisations and award recipients for contributing to the success of the event.

Why journalism matters to ordinary Nigerians

The discussions at the conference extended beyond the newsroom, focusing on how journalism affects everyday life.

Speakers noted that accurate reporting helps citizens understand government policies, monitor the use of public funds and participate more effectively in democratic processes.

They argued that investigative journalism has repeatedly exposed corruption, influenced policy reforms and strengthened public institutions.

Media experts at the event also warned that the rapid spread of false information on digital platforms makes professional journalism more important than ever.

According to them, the ability of journalists to verify facts before publication remains one of the strongest defences against misinformation.

Challenges confronting Nigerian journalism

Despite its achievements, speakers acknowledged that journalism in Nigeria continues to face significant obstacles.

These include political pressure, attacks on press freedom, economic difficulties affecting media organisations, declining advertising revenue, misinformation on social media and security risks confronting journalists covering sensitive issues.

Dr. Oshoba also pointed to declining ethical standards in some quarters of the profession, warning that sacrificing accuracy for speed or sensationalism ultimately weakens public confidence in the media.

He stressed that strengthening journalism requires investment in training, technology, investigative reporting and digital literacy.

Call for better welfare for journalists

Beyond ethics and professionalism, the keynote speaker called for improved welfare for journalists.

He argued that fair remuneration is essential if journalists are to remain independent and resist external influence.

Among his recommendations were greater transparency in media ownership, stronger professional unions, sustainable business models for news organisations, increased funding for investigative journalism and government policies that promote fair compensation.

According to him, a well-supported press is better positioned to serve the public interest.

Industry perspective

Media professionals attending the event agreed that journalism remains central to Nigeria’s democratic journey.

They observed that while technology has transformed news gathering and distribution, it has not diminished the need for credible reporting.

Many argued that the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digital platforms makes ethical journalism even more important, particularly as audiences increasingly struggle to distinguish verified information from online misinformation.

What happens next?

With the 2027 elections approaching, speakers expressed hope that journalists across Nigeria would continue to prioritise fact-based reporting over sensationalism.

They also urged governments, media owners, civil society organisations and citizens to work together in protecting press freedom and creating an environment where journalists can perform their constitutional responsibilities without fear or intimidation.

The 2026 Press Week concluded with an awards ceremony recognising individuals and organisations that have made notable contributions to journalism, public service and national development.

Organisers said the conversations initiated during the week would continue through professional engagement, advocacy and collaboration aimed at strengthening journalism as a tool for accountability, transparency and good governance.

The Nigeria Customs Service has opened a four-day workshop for journalists in Abuja to deepen public understanding of its ongoing Trade Modernisation Project and broader institutional reforms.

The training, which began on Wednesday and runs until 9 May 2026, brings together journalists from media organisations across Nigeria to learn about customs automation, digital trade systems and inspection technologies.

Officials say the initiative is part of efforts to improve transparency and ensure accurate reporting on reforms expected to reshape Nigeria’s trade and border management system.

Speaking on behalf of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Timi Bomodi said the media plays a critical role in helping the public understand the scale and purpose of the reforms.

“A lot is happening within the Service, and sometimes it may be difficult for stakeholders to keep pace with the speed of these developments. That is why engagements like this have become necessary,” Bomodi said.

Why the Customs modernisation project matters

The Trade Modernisation Project is one of the largest digital reform programmes currently underway within the Customs Service.

According to Customs officials, the initiative aims to reduce bottlenecks at ports, simplify trade procedures and create a more predictable environment for businesses importing and exporting goods.

Bomodi said automation and integrated digital platforms would help the agency improve efficiency while reducing opportunities for corruption and delays.

“The Trade Modernisation Project sits at the centre of our transformation journey. Through digital platforms, automation of procedures, and systems integration, we are building a Customs administration that is efficient, transparent, and globally competitive,” he said.

Trade experts have long argued that delays at Nigerian ports increase business costs and discourage investment. Analysts say improved customs processing could help lower logistics expenses and support regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Industry stakeholders also believe digital customs systems could improve revenue collection and reduce cargo congestion at major ports.

Media seen as key to reform success

Customs officials repeatedly stressed that public understanding would determine the success of the reforms.

Bomodi described journalists as a bridge between institutions and citizens, saying accurate reporting would help businesses and the wider public understand the benefits of the changes.

“When change happens, stakeholders must understand not just what is changing, but why it is changing. That is where the media becomes indispensable,” he added.

The National Public Relations Officer of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, said the workshop was designed to give journalists practical knowledge about the project and the wider transformation agenda. “In this era of global trade and technological advancement, it has become necessary to carry critical stakeholders, particularly the media, along in this journey of transformation,” Maiwada said.

He added that successful customs reform depends not only on technology and infrastructure but also on informed public communication.

Technical sessions focus on inspection systems

Participants at the workshop are expected to receive technical briefings on several customs technologies and operational systems.

Among the presentations is a session on the Integrated Non-Intrusive Inspection System delivered by Nafi’u Salihu.

Other resource persons include Bukola Omoniyi and senior officers involved in ICT and customs modernisation.

Also present at the opening ceremony were Oluyomi Adebakin and Muhammad Shu’aibu.

Industry expectations and public impact

Business groups have consistently called for reforms that would shorten cargo processing times and improve predictability at Nigerian ports.

If successfully implemented, analysts say the modernisation programme could improve Nigeria’s ease of doing business ranking, strengthen trade competitiveness and support economic growth.

Importers and exporters are also expected to benefit from faster document processing, reduced manual intervention and improved transparency in customs operations.

What’s next?

The workshop is expected to conclude on Saturday with additional technical sessions and stakeholder engagements focused on customs automation and trade facilitation.

Officials say further collaborations with the media and private sector stakeholders are likely as implementation of the reforms continues nationwide.