The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, on Wednesday charged the media to refrain from amplifying the activities of non-state actors and undesirable elements in the country.
Lagbaja gave the charge while delivering a keynote address at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat, First Quarter 2024 in Asaba, Delta.
DAILY POST reports that the event has as its theme, ‘Imperatives of Military-Media Partnership for the Attainment of National Security’.
Represented by Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdusalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division/Land Component Commanding, JTF, South-South Operation, the Army Chief decried the recent gruesome killings of officers and soldiers at Okuama in Delta State.
Lagbaja described the military-media chat as an all important event, adding that the theme underscores the critical role of collaboration in safeguarding national security.
He said that the Nigerian Army was aware of the complexity and difficulties presented by the current security landscape in the nation and that urgent measures were put in place to contain the challenges.
He said: “In an era characterized by rapid information dissemination and evolving security threats, effective communication and transparency are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens.
“The Nigerian Army recognises the enormous impact of the media as a vital link between the military and the public in providing essential information, sharpening public opinion and holding institutions accountable.
“Through accurate and responsible reporting, the media plays a crucial role in informing citizens, fostering dialogue, and strengthening our national security.
“Constitutionally, the military serves to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria and safeguard the country from external threats.”
Stop amplifying activities of undesirable elements – COAS tells media