The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has emphasised the crucial role of the media in national security, stating that ‘their pens are mightier than the gun’.
He made this statement during the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat for the First Quarter of 2025, which was held at the Custodian Hotel in Gombe, Gombe State.
Oluyede was represented at the occasion by Corps Commander Armour, Maj. Gen. Obinna Ajunwa highlighted the importance of collaboration between the media and the army in achieving national security objectives and maintaining peace and harmony.
The army chief urged media practitioners to uphold responsibility, accuracy, and fairness in reporting on military operations, balancing national security interests with the public’s right to information.
He also encouraged the media to verify information before dissemination to prevent the spread of misinformation or inflammatory content that could undermine national unity and security.
Oluyede enumerated significant successes in the army’s intensified operations across various regions, including the rescue of abducted Nigerians and the restoration of socio-economic activities in affected communities.
Also speaking, the chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. GU Chibuisi explained that the Nigerian Army’s quarterly media chat is designed to build capacity, deepen mutual understanding of civil-military cooperation, and enhance relationships between the army and the media.
According to him, the theme of the media chat, “Harnessing Whole of Society Approach to Enhance Information Management: National Security in Perspective,” highlights the need for harmonised efforts between the military and the media to promote positive narratives, transparency, and mutual respect.
“The Nigerian Army’s collaboration with the media is crucial for national security, as it helps to improve understanding, strengthen partnerships, and foster synergy between the army and the media.”, he said.
In his remarks, the managing director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali Muhammed Ali, who served as chairman of the occasion, pointed out the need for mutual respect, transparency, and trust between the Nigerian Army and the media.
He said the event was relevant and would provide a platform for constructive discussions and synergy between the military and the media, ultimately contributing to a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
