Asuquo Cletus
The Internet Society (ISOC), Nigeria Chapter, in collaboration with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has held a capacity building workshop for journalists on digital safety and encryption in Cross River State.
This is part of activities marking the 2025 Global Encryption Day.
The training, which took place at the Ernest Bassey Press Centre, Calabar, Yesterday, brought together reporters from various media organisations to deepen their knowledge of cybersecurity, data protection, and safe online practices.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Internet Society Nigeria Chapter, Kunle Olorundare, said the initiative was aimed at equipping journalists with the right tools to protect themselves in an increasingly digital and vulnerable world.
He noted that encryption has become a vital necessity in modern journalism, especially as reporters handle sensitive information and work in environments prone to surveillance and cyberattacks.
“You will agree with me that this is the 21st century, which comes with a lot of digitalisation. Every day we go online, we are exposed to different security risks,” he said.
“Encryption helps ensure that your messages and data remain safe and only accessible to the intended recipient. As journalists, the sensitivity of your work makes digital protection even more important.”
Olorundare commended the Cross River NUJ for consistently partnering with the Internet Society to promote safer digital practices, revealing that previous trainings held in the state received commendation from ISOC’s African Regional Manager.
Also speaking, Chairman of the NUJ Cross River State Council, Archibong Bassey, applauded the initiative, describing continuous training as essential for press freedom and professional growth.
“We can never have enough of these trainings. Anytime you call, we are ready to answer. Let us open our minds, interact and learn, so we can pass this knowledge to colleagues who are not here,” he said.
Resource persons at the workshop, Dr. Paul Ingiona and Pascal Omama, warned journalists to be vigilant against rising online scams and identity theft. They demonstrated practical steps on safeguarding digital resources, verifying online information, and preventing data breaches.
Participants were trained on password management, end-to-end encryption, avoiding phishing traps, and securing devices used for newsgathering and communication.
The organisers expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would strengthen safer digital practices among journalists and enhance public trust in their work.
The event ended with a renewed call for media professionals to champion cybersecurity awareness within their newsrooms and communities.
