Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, has urged the media to embrace factual, balanced, and conflict-sensitive reporting, saying responsible journalism can deprive terrorists and bandits of the “oxygen” they thrive on.
Oluyede made the call on Tuesday through Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), during the Press Week lecture and awards ceremony organised by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
The defence chief said the theme of the Press Week, ‘2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Misinformation’, was timely, considering the country’s complex security and information environment.
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“The media remains a critical pillar of our democracy and a vital instrument for national cohesion, public enlightenment, and accountability.
“Let me reiterate that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens in line with our constitutional mandate.
“In carrying out this duty across various theatres of operation, we have come to recognise more than ever that the press is a partner to the military in the collective effort to build a safe, stable, and prosperous nation. This partnership is not one of convenience but of necessity.
“While the military secures the physical space, the media shapes the information space. The narratives you project influence public perception, troop morale, and even the strategic outcomes of military operations.
“When reporting is factual, balanced, and conflict-sensitive, it denies oxygen to terrorism, banditry, and disinformation.
“It builds trust between the armed forces and the people we serve. Therefore, as we celebrate your contributions, I must also emphasise that responsible journalism is essential to national security.
“In this digital age, where a single tweet can travel faster than a battalion, the ethical responsibility of the press has never been greater.
“I urge you to continue to verify before publishing; prioritise national interest without sacrificing the truth; and give voice to the sacrifices of our troops who stand in harm’s way so that others may live in peace.
“On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I congratulate the chairperson, executives, and all members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT Council, on this Press Week.
“I commend your resilience, courage, and patriotism, often displayed under very difficult conditions.
“May your pens continue to defend the truth, and may your work strengthen the unity of our great nation.” Oluyede said.
Earlier, Grace Ike, chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, said the Press Week provides journalists with an opportunity to reflect on the state of the profession and renew their commitment to ethical journalism.
“As we move closer to the 2027 general elections, the media must remain vigilant, responsible, and courageous in the face of misinformation, fake news, propaganda, and deliberate attempts to distort public opinion,” she said.
Ike added that the media has a sacred duty to protect the truth, defend accountability, and preserve the integrity of the nation’s democratic process.
