Abuja: The Nigerian Army has emphasized the media’s responsibility to deliver timely and useful information to the public while ensuring that such information does not jeopardize national security. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stated this during the opening of a two-day training session for Media Operatives in Nigeria, held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the training was organized by the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs, and Oluyede, represented by Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, highlighted the Army’s proactive collaboration with the media. This initiative aims to build trust and cooperation in the pursuit of national security, striking a strategic balance between protecting citizens, upholding national security, and ensuring the media’s right to disseminate information.
The training underscores the importance of collaboration between the military and media in tackling security challenges. As security situations evolve, public institutions such as the media are urged to adapt to meet contemporary challenges. Oluyede emphasized the training’s objective to foster a conducive working relationship between the military and media, contributing to a secure Nigeria where every individual counts.
Maj.-Gen. Gold Chibuisi, Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), pointed out that addressing evolving national security challenges requires a whole-of-society approach. He stressed the importance of building mutual understanding rooted in trust, accuracy, and balanced reporting between the military and media. The training is part of the Army’s commitment to enhancing civil-military relations and fostering an informed, professional, and secure information environment.
Chibuisi also noted that accurate and constructive reporting can galvanize national support, enhance accountability, and positively contribute to collective security. He encouraged participants to actively engage, ask questions, and seek clarity on complex issues, expressing appreciation for the COAS’s strategic direction and support.
In a goodwill message, Mr. Mufutau Ojo, Editor-In-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria, commended the Army for organizing the training, highlighting the need for deeper collaboration between the Nigerian media and the military amidst the nation’s multi-dimensional security challenges. Hajiya Halima Musa, Director News of the Nigerian Television Authority, stressed understanding the consolidation of responsibilities between the military and media, emphasizing the need for timely and accurate information to prevent speculation and promote national peace.
