— The Federated Union of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (FUCNPN) has congratulated Nigerians on the commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day, calling for deeper engagement with rural communities to sustain the nation's democratic gains.
In a goodwill message issued on Friday, June 12, 2026, and signed by the National President, Dr. Dan Awana, the Union praised the resilience of Nigerian citizens in defending democratic governance despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
The statement emphasized that true democracy cannot flourish without a vibrant, independent community press that amplifies the voices of the grassroots.
The full statement reads:
"On this historic day, the National Executive Council and the entire membership of the Federated Union of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (FUCNPN) extend our warmest felicitations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, State Governors, local government leaders, and the resilient citizens of our great nation.
"Our democratic journey has proven that power truly belongs to the people. However, for democracy to yield its full dividends, governance must be inclusive.
True development starts at the grassroots, and the voices of our rural and semi-urban populations must remain central to the national discourse.
"As community newspaper publishers, we occupy a sacred position as the bridge between the government and the governed.
We have consistently put our resources on the line to defend free speech, promote civic education, and hold local authorities accountable.
We remain resolute in this mission.
"On this occasion, we call on all tiers of government to actively protect press freedom and guarantee the safety of journalists, especially those operating at the community level. We also urge government agencies to partner with the community press to ensure public policies and empowerment programmes reach the intended beneficiaries effectively.
"We urge all Nigerians to shun divisive tendencies and continue to champion peace, unity, and constitutional order. Together, we can build a nation where democracy thrives from the grassroots upward."Long live democracy! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!