The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening civil-military cooperation and foster collaborative relations with the media in a bid to enhance national security.
This was emphasised by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, at the First Quarter 2025 Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat in Gombe State.
General Oluyede stressed the critical role of the media in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, urging greater collaboration between the press and the military to ensure accurate and responsible reporting.
The Army Chief, who was represented by the Corps Commander Armour, Maj Gen Obinna Ajunwa, highlighted the importance of public education and enlightenment in fostering a collective approach to national security.
He noted that “the media, as controllers of public perception, were key allies in the fight against misinformation and in promoting national unity.”
“The theme of this event, Harnessing Whole of Society Approach to Enhance Information Management: National Security in Perspective, underscores the vital role that both the media and the Nigerian Army play in safeguarding national security,” he stated.
Acknowledging the long-standing debate on whether the pen is mightier than the sword, the Army Chief affirmed that in today’s security environment, cooperation between the media and the military was essential.
“The collaboration between the army and the media is fundamental to achieving national security objectives. We must work together to maintain peace, harmony, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” General Oluyede said.
To strengthen this partnership, he called for open dialogue, mutual respect, and regular communication channels between the military and the media. He stressed the need for responsible journalism that upholds accuracy and fairness, while balancing national security interests with the public’s right to information.
“It is crucial to avoid spreading misinformation or inflammatory content that could undermine national unity. I encourage media practitioners to always verify information before dissemination,” General Oluyede urged.
The Chief of Army Staff said “the Nigerian Army was committed to engaging with stakeholders, including the media, in its efforts to combat security threats through both kinetic and non-kinetic operations and that the call for enhanced media-military collaboration reflected the Army’s recognition of information management as a key pillar in maintaining national security.”
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. General Gold Chibuisi, said the quarterly media engagement with the theme “Harnessing Whole of Society Approach to Enhance Information Management: National Security in Perspective,” aimed at improving communication, transparency, and mutual respect between the Nigerian Army and the media.
Maj. Gen. Chibuisi underscored the importance of integrating both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address modern security threats, saying “the strategies will allow them navigate conflicts with dignity by fostering dialogue and collaboration to build a more peaceful and resilient nation.”
He highlighted the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between military operations and civilian aspirations for peace and stability.
“The Army’s collaboration with the media is one of the many avenues used to enhance civil-military relations and improve understanding, partnership, and synergy, which remain crucial for national stability,” Maj. Gen. Chibuisi explained.
As part of its non-kinetic approach, he said the Army had implemented various engagement initiatives, including social media seminars, human rights awareness campaigns, and lectures aimed at informing the public about military activities and fostering constructive partnerships.
Maj. Gen. Chibuisi also said “military personnel were undergoing specialized trainings to enhance professionalism in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy, while recognising the media’s pivotal role in shaping public perception.”
He urged journalists to uphold ethical reporting standards, avoid sensationalism, and promote accurate and impartial reportage.
“A collaborative military-media alliance is essential in today’s interconnected world. Responsible journalism plays a critical role in enhancing security awareness and public trust,” the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs said.
The event also served as a platform to appreciate the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his strategic vision and support in strengthening the Army’s engagements with the public.
It also encouraged participants to leverage the gathering to reinforce cooperation and seek innovative solutions to national security challenges, while reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s dedication to safeguarding the nation.
Maj. Gen. Chibuisi called for stronger collaboration, responsible journalism, and a collective commitment to shaping a secure and informed society, while pledging to promote understanding and unity among citizens.
The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Ali Muhammed Ali, emphasised the importance of media collaboration in national security.
Mr. Ali highlighted the crucial role of both the military and the media in safeguarding the nation, countering misinformation, and fostering public trust.
He said the theme “Harnessing a Whole-of-Society Approach to Enhance Information Management: National Security in Perspective,” would strengthen military-media cooperation in shaping public perceptions and ensuring accurate security reportage.
He stressed that modern warfare was intelligence and media-driven, urging journalists to report with patriotism and objectivity, while commending the Nigerian Army’s Department of Civil-Military Affairs for organizing the dialogue.
Mr. Ali also praised media professionals for their commitment to responsible journalism, acknowledging the success of the previous edition in Enugu, while expressing confidence in the impact of the session in Gombe.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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