The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has called on media practitioners in the South-East to engage in responsible and balanced reporting concerning the operations and activities of the Nigerian Army.
Oluyede made this call in Enugu on Thursday during an address at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Quarterly Media Chat for the Fourth Quarter of 2024, themed: “Military and Media Relationship: A Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development.”
Represented by Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, the COAS emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration and fostering open dialogue between the Nigerian Army and the media.
He stated that these dialogues are essential for building a robust and mutually beneficial relationship.
Establishing regular communication channels, he noted, would facilitate transparent reporting on military operations, allow for timely dissemination of information, and effectively counter misinformation.
“I urge media practitioners to prioritise accuracy and fairness in reporting on Nigerian Army activities, while balancing the public’s right to information with national security considerations.
“It is crucial to avoid spreading misinformation or content that could undermine national unity and security. Through collaboration, we can enhance public understanding, build trust, and contribute to the greater good of our nation.
“This partnership should extend beyond conflict reporting to encompass national development and community engagement.
“By highlighting initiatives that improve citizens’ lives, we can present a united front against violent armed groups and distractions from nation-building.”
The COAS revealed that the Nigerian Army has been intensifying operations across various regions to address the complex security challenges currently faced by the nation.
“I am pleased to report significant successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, the rescue of abducted citizens, and the restoration of socio-economic activities in affected communities.
“As we continue these operations, I call on all Nigerians to support the Army and urge the media to uphold responsible and balanced reporting.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to fostering a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the media, essential for safeguarding our territorial integrity and advancing national development,” he stated.
Maj.-Gen. Nosakhare Ugbo, Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation, expressed gratitude to the COAS and the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu, for their support and funding of the media chat aimed at strengthening understanding between the Nigerian Army and the media.
Ugbo also thanked media practitioners and executives for taking the time to engage with the Nigerian Army and address localised security challenges.
The Special Guest of Honour at the event, Chief Executive Officer of Guardian Newspaper, Mr Toke Ibru, pointed out that the media chat and its theme were timely for improving public accessibility to accurate information and combating misinformation.
“This event will also enable the Nigerian Army to understand how the media operates, including its challenges and pressures, thereby enhancing our relationship,” Ibru noted.
In a lecture titled “Enhancing National Security through a Whole of Society Approach: Effective Information Management in Perspective,” Maj.-Gen. Godwin Umelo (retired) asserted that community involvement is vital for the security of neighbourhoods.
“Security is everyone’s business in society, and we must provide security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, with actionable information to respond to security threats promptly,” Umelo concluded.