By Mohammed Bello Doka
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged media practitioners to prioritize accuracy, fairness, and professionalism in reporting the activities of the Nigerian Army. This call was made during the Fourth Quarter Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Media Chat held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Enugu. Represented by Major General Hassan Taiwo, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander of the Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA, the COAS emphasized the critical role of the media as a bridge between the military and the public.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede highlighted that balanced and factual reportage would enhance public understanding, foster trust, and contribute to national progress. He also reassured the public of the Nigerian Army's dedication to protecting law-abiding citizens and safeguarding their civil liberties. However, he cautioned against the spread of misinformation, noting its potential to jeopardize national security and undermine public confidence in military operations.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Toke Alex-Ibru, Chief Executive Officer of The Guardian Newspapers, underscored the importance of collaborative communication in countering misinformation and shaping positive public perceptions. He pointed out that while some media actors may pursue parochial agendas, the military’s openness and transparency would serve as a bulwark against the spread of false narratives. “Misinformation thrives where there is an absence of credible information,” Alex-Ibru remarked, calling for a sustained partnership between the military and the media to ensure the dissemination of truthful and accurate content.
In his opening remarks, Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to engaging constructively with the media. He stressed that ethical journalism, mutual respect, and transparency are indispensable to fostering public support and addressing the nation's security challenges. According to Maj. Gen. Ugbo, such collaboration will strengthen the nation's values and contribute to its prosperity.
Themed “Military and Media Relationship: A Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development,” the event featured two keynote lectures: “Enhancing National Security through a Whole-of-Society Approach: Effective Information Management Perspectives” and “Strategic Information Management: The Role of the Media in Enhancing National Security in Nigeria.” Both presentations provided insights into how strategic communication could bolster national security.
The media chat concluded with an interactive session led by Maj. Gen. Ugbo, where participants addressed pressing public concerns and explored ways to strengthen the bond between the military and the media. The dialogue reinforced the shared responsibility of safeguarding national security through ethical journalism and strategic communication.
This engagement marks a significant step toward fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the Nigerian Army and media stakeholders, paving the way for a stronger, safer, and more united Nigeria.
Tags
News