The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation across the country, noting the gradual spread of insecurity into areas previously regarded as peaceful.

The union stated this in a communiqué issued at the end of its South-South Zonal Executive Council meeting held on Saturday in Calabar, Cross River State.
It urged state governments in the zone to strengthen security architecture and decisively tackle emerging threats.

The meeting, presided over by the South-South (Zone F) Zonal Vice President, Comrade Opaka, called for intensive community policing, proper profiling of persons entering communities, and stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies in addressing security challenges.

While acknowledging the proactive measures adopted by governments across the South-South region in safeguarding lives and property, the zone emphasized the need for heightened vigilance over vehicles escorted by men in military uniforms, citing concerns over the proliferation of military-style uniforms in the hands of non-state actors.

The zonal leadership commended the Government of Cross River State for its developmental strides within three years of its administration.

It also praised the Federal Government for progress recorded on the Calabar–Itu Highway project, while urging authorities to expedite its completion, along with other critical road projects in the region, to ease hardship for commuters and reduce road accidents.

The meeting further applauded the Federal Government for completing the Aba–Ikot Ekpene Highway, describing it as a significant intervention in regional infrastructure development.
The union called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward environmental remediation in oil-producing communities in the South-South and conduct comprehensive environmental impact assessments to address the long-term effects of oil exploration and production.

It also urged governments in the region not to allow political campaigns and re-election activities to overshadow governance, but to remain focused on delivering democratic dividends while conducting political activities responsibly.

The zonal leadership reaffirmed its commitment to the unity, growth, and progress of the union, pledging continued advocacy for good governance, security, infrastructural development, environmental sustainability, and journalists’ welfare.

It also appealed to journalists in the region to uphold professional ethics and report responsibly during the electioneering period ahead of the 2027 general elections.