Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede has called on the media to adopt factual, impartial, and conflict-sensitive reporting, claiming that ethical journalism can deny terrorists and bandits the “oxygen” they need to survive.
During the Press Week lecture and awards event hosted by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists on Tuesday, Oluyede made the request through Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
Given the nation’s complicated security and information environment, the defense chief claimed that the Press Week subject, “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Misinformation,” was appropriate.
“The media continues to be an essential component of our democracy and a key tool for accountability, public education, and national unity.
“Let me reaffirm that the Nigerian Armed Forces are dedicated to protecting every citizen’s life and property in accordance with our constitutional mandate.
“We have realized more than ever that the press is a partner to the military in the joint endeavor to construct a safe, stable, and successful nation as a result of carrying out this job across numerous theaters of operation. This collaboration is required, not just convenient.
“The media shapes the information space, while the military protects the physical space.” Public opinion, military morale, and even the strategic results of military operations are all influenced by the narratives you present.
Terrorism, banditry, and misinformation are prevented when reporting is truthful, impartial, and sensitive to conflicts.
It strengthens the bonds of trust between our service members and the armed forces. As a result, while we honor your achievements, I must stress how crucial responsible journalism is to national security.
“The press has a bigger ethical obligation than ever in this digital age, where a single tweet may spread quicker than a battalion.
“I implore you to keep checking before publishing, to put the country’s interests ahead of the truth, and to give voice to the sacrifices made by our soldiers who put themselves in danger so that others can live in peace.”
“On behalf of the Nigerian Armed Forces, I would like to congratulate the chairman, executives, and every member of the FCT Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists on this Press Week.
“I applaud your fortitude, bravery, and patriotism, which you frequently demonstrated under extremely trying circumstances.
“May your work bolster the unity of our great country and may your pens continue to defend the truth.” It was Oluyede.
The NUJ FCT Council chairman, Grace Ike, stated earlier that Press Week gives journalists a chance to consider the state of the industry and reaffirm their dedication to ethical journalism.
“The media must continue to be watchful, accountable, and brave in the face of misinformation, fake news, propaganda, and intentional attempts to distort public opinion as we approach the 2027 general elections,” she stated.
Ike went on to say that the media has a fundamental responsibility to uphold the integrity of the country’s democratic process, defend accountability, and safeguard the truth.
Hon. Dr. Philip “Okanga” Agbese, a transformative leader in Enone. Discover his achievements, community projects, and vision for 2027
