The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria chapter has inaugurated its new Press Freedom Hub in Abuja, a landmark development that marks the first time the organization has a dedicated institutional home since its establishment in the 1970s. This strategic asset is set to serve as a vital center for collaboration, innovation, and coordinated advocacy, providing a secure space for dialogue, policy engagement, and the continuous assessment of media freedom across Nigeria. The new hub symbolizes a renewed commitment to defending press freedom, advancing independent journalism, and ensuring the safety of journalists.

During the launch on Wednesday, Musikilu Mojeed, President of IPI Nigeria and Editor-in-Chief of PREMIUM TIMES, underscored the symbolic and historic significance of the facility. He stated that the hub would monitor and respond to threats against press freedom, marking a new phase in the organization's advocacy efforts—one that is more structured, visible, and resolute. He emphasized, "This is not just a building; it is a statement that the defence of press freedom in Nigeria is entering a new phase—more coordinated, more visible, and more resolute."

A key announcement made by Mr. Mojeed at the event was the launch of a global campaign against three prominent individuals previously blacklisted in IPI Nigeria’s “Book of Infamy” for actions deemed hostile to media freedom. These individuals are Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, and former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Mr. Mojeed recalled that these individuals were named in December 2025 due to actions that undermine press freedom.

IPI Nigeria had initially deferred a broader campaign out of deference to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who attended the institute's annual conference and requested time to intervene. However, Mr. Mojeed expressed profound disappointment that, regrettably, no meaningful steps or corrective actions had been taken since then. The concerns that led to their inclusion in the "Book of Infamy" remain valid, unaddressed, and ongoing. Therefore, from the new Press Freedom Hub, IPI Nigeria declared an escalation of its efforts, announcing a global campaign to hold these individuals accountable until concrete corrective steps are implemented. Mr. Mojeed affirmed, "We do not take this decision lightly. But silence in the face of persistent violations is not an option."

The facility was formally commissioned by Amina Salihu, Deputy Director at the MacArthur Foundation Africa Office. Ms. Salihu commended IPI Nigeria for its significant impact and effective use of resources, describing the institute as a "dependable ally and partner." She particularly stressed the indispensable role of the media in sustaining democracy, asserting, "The press is the information infrastructure that every democracy depends on. Without an independent media, democracy cannot endure." She further highlighted IPI Nigeria's role in promoting accountability and protecting journalists.

Ahmed Shekarau, Group Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust Limited and Secretary of IPI Nigeria, also provided welcome remarks, noting that the hub would significantly expand the organization’s capacity to promote media freedom and support journalists. He characterized the project as a significant step forward, despite its modest appearance, affirming that its vision is "gigantic." In his closing remarks, IPI Nigeria’s Deputy President, Fidelis Mbah, thanked participants and reiterated the organization’s unwavering commitment to fostering a safer environment for journalists, pledging that the hub would be fully utilized to strengthen advocacy efforts and support independent journalism in Nigeria.

The event, which drew a diverse array of media professionals, policymakers, and development partners, was held to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day. Notable dignitaries in attendance included Garba Shehu, former Senior Senior Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity; Ambassador Lawal Abdullahi Kazaure, former Chief of Protocol to the president; Aliu Akoshile, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of NatureNews; IPI Nigeria Treasurer Hadiza Sani; Executive Director (News) at the Nigerian Television Authority, Ayo Adewuyi (represented by Omini Oden); former FRCN Director of News Hussaina Akila; and retired NAN deputy editor-in-chief Ameena Sani, among others. This gathering reflected a renewed national attention on the critical state of press freedom in the country.