The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, has applauded Governor Bassey Otu for his outstanding commitment to media freedom and journalist safety, following the state’s recognition as the “safest state for journalists” in Nigeria.
The accolade was conferred by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) in its latest national assessment report, which evaluated all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory based on access to information, institutional transparency, legal protections for media workers, and recorded incidents of harassment.
Reacting to the report, Comrade Bassey attributed the achievement to the Governor’s deliberate media-friendly posture and the improved security architecture under his administration.
“This recognition is not a coincidence,” she said. “It is the result of Governor Otu’s inclusive leadership style, his respect for press freedom, and his commitment to creating an enabling environment for journalists to operate without fear.”
She highlighted key indices that earned Cross River the top spot with a press freedom score of 70.40 percent, including open-door access to public information, zero-tolerance for media intimidation, and ongoing engagement between the state government and media practitioners.
“Since coming into office, Governor Otu has demonstrated a high regard for transparency and has consistently ensured that journalists are not only respected but protected. This has translated into reduced cases of harassment and greater institutional openness,” the NUJ Chair stated.
Comrade Bassey also praised the government’s strategic security reforms, which she said have made Cross River a model of peace and stability in the region.
“As journalists, we can now report from even the remotest parts of the state with minimal risk. That is a testament to the Governor’s commitment to the safety and welfare of every resident,” she added.
She encouraged other state governments to emulate Cross River’s example and recognize that press freedom is fundamental to democratic development.
“Governor Otu’s leadership has shown that a free press is not a threat but a partner in progress. We thank him and look forward to even stronger collaborations for a better, safer, and more informed Cross River State,” she concluded.
In CJID’s nationwide assessment, states like Ondo, Delta, Katsina, and Ekiti also scored highly, while Imo and Lagos were ranked as the most difficult environments for journalists, owing to repression, poor access to public information, and increasing incidents of harassment.
