Nigerian Journalist sets out on 72-Hour interview marathon to champion Press Freedom

An Abuja-based journalist, Livinus Chibuike Victor, is set to embark on a remarkable 72-hour interview marathon aimed at promoting press freedom in Nigeria.

The event, themed “Nigeria Our Strength,” is scheduled to run from April 17 to April 20, 2025, at Harrow Park Golf Club, off Ahmadu Bello Way, behind Abia House, in the Central Business District of Abuja.

Victor announced the upcoming Guinness World Record attempt while addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council Secretariat.

He explained that the marathon is not just a personal milestone but a bold message to the world about the importance of press freedom, especially in the face of growing global threats such as censorship, intimidation, and violence against journalists.

“Despite the increasing threats faced by journalists globally, they continue to do their jobs with courage and integrity,” Victor said, describing media professionals as the backbone of democracy and defenders of truth.

He emphasized that journalists play a vital role in exposing the truth, promoting transparency, and giving a voice to the voiceless.

In his words, “As misinformation spreads and public trust in institutions declines, professional journalism remains one of the last strongholds against falsehood and manipulation.”

Victor called for stronger protections for journalists and more investment in quality journalism, adding that societies where the press is free and safe tend to be better informed and more democratic.

He noted that the 72-hour interview marathon is not just a world record attempt but a national call to recognize the critical role of the media in building a just and open society.

“This is a symbolic and collective move to highlight the importance of press freedom in any thriving democracy,” he added.

The marathon, he said, would include interviews with notable individuals from different sectors discussing issues like national growth, civic duties, media ethics, and freedom of expression.

Victor stated that the event will also address the current challenges facing journalists in Nigeria, while showcasing their strength and dedication to truth, even under difficult conditions.

Victor invited Nigerians, media workers, and democracy advocates to support the event, thanking the NUJ FCT Council for its encouragement and urging for more collaboration across civil society, government, and the media to defend press freedom.

“This is our story, our voice, and our democracy to protect,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the NUJ FCT Chairperson, Comrade Grace Ike, praised Victor’s initiative, describing it as brave and timely.

She noted that the interview marathon would serve as a platform to amplify the voices of journalists and stress the urgent need to protect their rights across the world.

“This is more than an endurance test; it is a call to the global community to hear the voices of the media on issues that affect us all,” she said.

In a speech titled “Press Freedom: The Foundation of Democracy”, Ike stressed that protecting press freedom is not a privilege, but a necessity in any democratic society.

She raised concerns about the increasing dangers journalists face both in Nigeria and abroad, including censorship, harassment, and even death, adding that such threats endanger democracy itself.

According to her, “Through this marathon, we aim to bring these issues to the forefront and push for stronger protections for journalists everywhere.”

She also highlighted the fast-changing media landscape driven by digital technology and warned of the dangers of fake news and public distrust.

Ike called for continuous training to help journalists maintain ethical standards and stay relevant.

On welfare, the NUJ FCT Chairperson urged better conditions for media practitioners, many of whom work in unsafe environments without proper pay or job security.

She said if the media is to keep holding the powerful accountable, journalists must be treated with dignity and fairness.

“This event is not just local; it is a global conversation involving leaders, policymakers, and everyday people on key topics like governance, climate change, and human rights,” she said.

As the first female leader of the NUJ FCT Council, Ike said she sees the event as a chance to challenge old narratives and create a legacy for the next generation of journalists.

She encouraged people in the FCT to participate actively, either as guests or interviewees, stating that their presence would help drive home the message of the importance of a free and ethical press.

“Let this event mark a turning point,” she concluded. “Long live press freedom. Long live the NUJ FCT Council.”

Also present at the briefing were NUJ FCT Vice Chairman Mr. Yahaya Ndambabo, Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, and Treasurer Sandra Udeike.

They all praised Victor’s bold move and stressed the need to protect media workers across Nigeria.