COAS Challenges Media on Responsible Reportage, Advocates More Synergy For Enhanced Security
By Wilfred Chukwuma
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has challenged Nigerian journalists in the country to be more responsible and insist on accuracy in their reportage of operations and activities of the Nigerian Army in the interest of national security.
Oluyede set the task on Thursday in an address at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Quarterly Media Chat for the Fourth Quarter of 2024 held in Enugu, with the theme: “Military and Media Relationship: A Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development”.
The COAS, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen.Hassan Dada, emphasised the need for more synergy to provide opportunities for open dialogue between the Nigerian Army and the media.
According to him, “these open dialogues are essential requirements for robust and mutually beneficial relationship”.
He said that establishing regular communication channels would enable transparent reporting on military operations, timely dissemination of information, and help counter misinformation effectively.
He said, “I urge media practitioners to prioritise accuracy and fairness in reporting on Nigerian Army activities and balancing the public’s right to information with national security considerations.
“It is also crucial to avoid spreading misinformation or content that could jeopardise 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 include national development and community engagement.
“By highlighting initiatives that improve the lives of citizens, we can promote a united front against violent armed groups and distractions from nation-building.”
The COAS disclosed that Nigerian Army had been intensifying operations across various regions to address the complex security challenges the nation currently faces.
“I am pleased to report significant successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, the rescue of abducted citizens and restoring 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 maintain 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 said.
The Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation, Maj.-Gen. Nosakhare Ugbo in his speech, appreciated the COAS and President Bola Tinubu, for supporting and funding the media chat to build a robust understand between the Nigerian Army and media.
Ugbo also thanked the media practitioners and executives for their collaboration with the Nigerian Army in proffering solutions to some security challenges.
The Special Guest of Honour to the event, Chief Executive Officer of Guardian Newspaper, Mr Toke-Alex Ibru, noted that the media chat with its theme was apt to create accessibility of the public especially media to get correct information and drive away misinformation.
“The event will also enable the Nigerian Army understand how the media functions, including its challenges and pressures; and through this means better the relationship,” Ibru said.
Maj.Gen. Godwin Umelo (retired), in a lecture titled: “Enhancing National Security through Whole of Society Approach: Effective Information Management in Perspective”, said that the people must get involved in the security of their neighbourhoods and communities.
“Security is everybody’s business in the society and we need to give security agencies especially the Nigerian Army all the support in terms of actionable information to respond to security threats on time,” he noted.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, while he is presently on his M.Sc programme also in Mass Communication, at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is currently the NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
