Media Key to National Unity, Public Trust — COAS Shaibu
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has described the media as a powerful instrument for shaping public perception, influencing attitudes, and promoting national unity. He made the assertion at the opening of a four-day media workshop organized by the Directorate of Army Public Relations and the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information (NASPRI) on Monday in Abuja.
Speaking through Brig. Gen. Mathias Amatso at the event held at the Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja Auditorium, Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, the COAS noted that the evolution of digital communication has significantly transformed the way information is generated, shared, and interpreted.
He said the immediacy of new media offers the Nigerian Army opportunities to tell its story transparently while showcasing professionalism and commitment to national security. However, he warned that the same platforms also expose the military to misinformation, fake news, and malicious propaganda capable of undermining operations, weakening troops’ morale, and eroding public trust.
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Lt. Gen. Shaibu stressed the importance of strengthening the army’s engagement with media stakeholders, describing them as critical partners in shaping public understanding of military activities. He said such collaboration is essential, especially during internal security operations, to ensure accurate and responsible reporting.
He urged participants to view the workshop as a strategic intervention aimed at bridging communication gaps, promoting responsible reportage, and institutionalizing continuous media–military collaboration in the interest of national security.
Earlier in her remarks, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Apollonia Anele—represented by the Commandant of NASPRI, Lt. Col. Adamu Yahaya Ngulde—encouraged participants to adapt to the fast-evolving media environment. She emphasized the need for enhanced public confidence and sustained relationships with key stakeholders to foster operational harmony and inter-agency trust.
The workshop, themed “Navigating the Evolving Media Landscape: Enhancing Collaboration With Media Stakeholders Through New Media,” drew several high-profile guests, including retired senior officers such as Maj. Gen. Chris Olukolade, Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, Brig. Gen. S.K. Usman, Col. M.A. Anka, and Col. Timothy Antigha.
Highlights of the event included lecture presentations, deliberation sessions, souvenir presentations, and group photographs.
By PRNigeria
