Insecurity: COAS Calls for Deeper Media-Military Partnership
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering collaboration with the media as part of efforts to enhance national security and strengthen civil-military relations.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stated this on Tuesday at the opening of a two-day training for media professionals organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs in Abuja.
Represented by the Director-General, Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, Maj.-Gen. Gbemiga Adesina, the COAS said the Army recognises the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and maintaining trust in security institutions.
“The objective of this training is to create a conducive working relationship between the military and the media.
“As security situations evolve, institutions such as the media must also adapt to meet the demands of our time,” Oluyede said.
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He noted that the Army is adopting a proactive approach in engaging the media to build mutual understanding while balancing operational sensitivity with the public’s right to information.
“This forum provides an avenue for the media to understand our operations and doctrines. We believe that accurate and timely information sharing will go a long way in promoting national stability,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Chibuisi Gold, said addressing the country’s complex security challenges requires a whole-of-society approach, with the media playing a strategic role.
Gold stressed the importance of trust, balanced reporting, and access to information in enhancing the country’s security framework.
“A well-informed media can galvanise national support, promote accountability, and counter misinformation. This initiative is aimed at bridging the knowledge gap between media practitioners and the security sector,” he said.
He encouraged participants to engage actively, seek clarification on complex security matters, and work towards responsible reporting that aligns with national interest.
