UK support for press freedom in Nigeria strengthened through journalist training on ethical reporting and media independence

The British High Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting press freedom and ethical journalism in Nigeria through expanded collaboration with media professionals and academic institutions.

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The British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, made the commitment during a roundtable session held at his residence in Ikoyi on Wednesday.

The session formed part of a British High Commission-sponsored training programme on advancing press freedom through science and technology journalism for Nigerian journalists.

The workshop was facilitated by Pan-Atlantic University and focused on strengthening ethical standards, evidence-based reporting and media independence in the digital era.

Speaking during the event, Jonny Baxter said the United Kingdom remained firmly committed to supporting independent journalism and freedom of expression in Nigeria.

“The UK strongly supports freedom of expression and a free press. That is why we are proud to support this training, which focuses on media freedom and the important role of science and technology reporting,” he said.

Jonny Baxter warned that the rapid spread of unverified information in the digital age has increased the responsibility of journalists and media organisations to uphold accuracy and credibility.

The UK support for press freedom initiative also underscored the importance of continuous dialogue and professional development for journalists navigating technological change and evolving public communication challenges.

The deputy high commissioner said the UK would continue to engage Nigerian media organisations through partnerships, training and policy discussions aimed at strengthening democratic accountability.

He also referenced the recent visit of President Bola Tinubu to the United Kingdom, noting that effective media engagement remained critical to transparent governance and public trust.

The two-day programme featured lectures, practical sessions and panel discussions focused on science and technology reporting, ethical journalism and press freedom protections.

Dean of the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, Ikechukwu Obiaya, stressed the importance of truth, fairness and accountability in journalism.

Ikechukwu Obiaya noted that technological advancement has transformed information dissemination, allowing both professionals and non-professionals to create media content.

He said the changing media environment has made critical thinking and professional ethics increasingly essential for journalists and audiences alike.

An Associate Professor at the university, Silk Ogbu, trained participants on communication psychology, emotional intelligence and decision-making skills for reporters operating in high-pressure environments.

Silk Ogbu also highlighted concerns about media ownership and funding structures, warning that financial influence could undermine editorial independence.

Other panellists at the event included Senior Lecturer Margaret Agada-Mba, media law expert Tomi Vincent and Channels Television Diplomatic Editor Amarachi Ubani.

The speakers collectively called for stronger institutional protections for journalists and greater support for responsible reporting in Nigeria.

The programme also featured interactive sessions and a guided visit to the university’s museum as part of efforts to provide participants with broader exposure and practical learning experiences.

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Senior communications officials of the British High Commission, including Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, Onyinye Madu and Ndidiamaka Eze, attended the event under the leadership of Head of Communications, Aseosa Uwagboe.