The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) unveils Nigeria’s first-ever subnational Openness Index, a tool that evaluates the state of press freedom and civic space across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Developed with support from the Embassy of the Netherlands, the CJID Openness Index is a pioneering effort that merges qualitative and quantitative data to assess how Nigeria’s states support or suppress democratic expression.
CJID noted that the Index is built around two key pillars: Enablers—factors that facilitate civic expression—and Inhibitors—forces that hinder it.
Over 1,100 respondents—including journalists, editors, newsroom managers, and civil society actors—participated in the study. Their responses helped shape the Index’s analysis across seven diagnostic categories: legal protections, institutional safeguards, journalist safety, media diversity, internet freedom, civic engagement, and government transparency.
“The Index is both a mirror and a map,” said Dapo Olorunyomi, CEO of CJID. “It reflects the lived experiences of journalists and civil actors across Nigeria, and it guides policymakers, media professionals, and civil society toward reforms that can sustain our democracy.”
CJID’s Executive Director, Akintunde Babatunde, said the project aims to redefine openness in democratic governance and expand its utility across Africa. “We are building a pan-African framework that will shape public discourse and trigger policy reforms,” he noted. “For years, CJID has tracked threats to media freedom—from our Press Attack Tracker to our coalition for whistleblower protection. This Index is the next step.”
The launch event features keynote remarks from Professor Umaru Pate, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere and Chair of CJID’s Board. Also speaking were renowned scholars, including Professor Tony Iredia, former Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA); Professor Chris Ogbondah of the University of Northern Iowa; and Professor Victor Ayedun-Aluma of the University of Jos, who presented the research findings on behalf of the index team.
Two panel discussions followed: one explored the evolution of Nigeria’s media landscape from military rule to democracy. At the same time, the other unpacked the Index results and highlighted strategies for improving media freedom and civic openness at the state level.
Olorunyomi emphasized the broader implications of the Index, stating, “No democracy can thrive without openness. This Index is our challenge to every stakeholder—let’s protect the freedom that holds power accountable.”
