The Nigerian Army has urged journalists to strike a careful balance between national security and the public’s right to information, stressing that responsible communication is vital to defeating terrorism and strengthening civil–military relations.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, made the appeal on Thursday at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat for the Fourth Quarter of 2025, held in Jos, Plateau State.
The media chat, with the theme “The Nigerian Security Environment: Role of Strategic Communication in Strengthening Civil-Military Relations,” featured presentations on the impact of emerging technologies and the media’s role in tackling national security challenges.
Shaibu, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Maj. Gen. E.F. Oyinlola said the media occupies a decisive position in shaping public opinion, countering misinformation and sustaining public confidence in ongoing military operations.
“We must maintain regular communication channels to ensure transparent reporting on military operations, timely dissemination of information, and effective countering of disinformation and misinformation,” he said. “As the Army intensifies operations to eliminate the threats bedevilling our beloved country, I urge all Nigerians to support the Nigerian Army and encourage the media to practice responsible and balanced reporting.”
He also cautioned citizens and journalists against circulating unverified content, especially material generated through Artificial Intelligence, that could inflame tensions or undermine national unity.
“While the pen is considered mightier than the sword, our current security environment demands stronger cooperation between the pen and the sword,” he said, adding that media practitioners must uphold objectivity, credibility, fairness and responsibility while ensuring that national security concerns are weighed alongside the people’s right to know.
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. M.A. Etsu-Ndagi echoed the Army Chief’s remarks, describing the media as essential partners in shaping public perception and deepening public understanding of security issues.
He noted that the Nigerian Army remains committed to providing accurate, timely and comprehensive information to journalists as part of efforts to build trust and national cohesion.
A panel of discussants agreed that the military and the media ultimately serve the same national interest from different vantage points and must continue to find common ground in the discharge of their duties.
Credit: punchng.com
