Chief of Defense Staff Olufemi Oluyede has called on the media to adopt factual, impartial, and conflict-sensitive reporting, arguing that ethical journalism might deny terrorists and bandits the “oxygen” they need to survive.
During the Press Week lecture and awards ceremony hosted by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oluyede made the call on Tuesday via Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
Given the nation’s complicated security and information landscape, the defense chief stated 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 crucial tool for accountability, public education, and national unity.
“Let me restate that, in accordance with our constitutional mission, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are still dedicated to protecting the lives and property of all citizens.
“We have realized more than ever that the press is a partner to the military in the joint effort to construct a safe, stable, and prosperous nation as we carry out this job across many theaters of war. This collaboration is necessary rather than convenient.
“The media shapes the information space, while the military protects the physical space. Your narratives affect troop morale, public opinion, and even the strategic results of military operations.
Terrorism, banditry, and misinformation are prevented when reporting is factual, impartial, and sensitive to conflicts.
“It fosters trust between the people we serve and the military forces. As a result, I must stress that ethical journalism is crucial to national security while we honor your efforts.
“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 prioritize national interest without compromising the truth, to continue verifying before publishing, and to give voice to the sacrifices made by our troops who stand in danger so that others can live in peace.”
“I congratulate the chairman, executives, and every member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, FCT Council, on this Press Week on behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“I applaud your fortitude, bravery, and patriotism, which you frequently exhibit in really trying circumstances.
“May your writing continue to uphold the truth, and may it fortify our wonderful country’s unity.” Oluyede spoke.
The NUJ FCT Council chairman, Grace Ike, stated earlier that Press Week gives journalists a chance to consider the state of their profession and reaffirm their dedication to ethical journalism.
“The media must continue to be watchful, accountable, and brave in the face of disinformation, 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 sacred obligation to uphold accountability, safeguard the truth, and maintain the integrity of the country’s democratic process.
