Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has emphasized that the collaboration between the Nigerian military and the media is not just beneficial but a critical necessity to defeat Boko Haram, foster national unity, and safeguard democratic values.
He described this partnership as a strategic cornerstone for achieving lasting peace in Nigeria.
Speaking at the One-Day 3rd Quarter Media Stakeholders Seminar themed: _“Consolidating Media-Military Synergy for Sustainable Peace in Nigeria,”_ held at the Nigerian Army Officers’ Mess and Suite, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State, General Musa highlighted the indispensable role of the media.
The event, organized by the Directorate of Defence Media Operations, Defence Headquarters, brought together military and media stakeholders to strengthen their collaboration.
Represented by Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations and the event’s chief host, General Musa reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He commended the sacrifices of troops operating in challenging and often perilous conditions across various theatres, particularly in the Northeast, where they continue to combat Boko Haram and ISWAP remnants.
“Military operations do not exist in isolation,” General Musa noted, stressing the importance of effective information management, public perception, and strategic communication as vital components alongside combat efforts.
He added, “Peace and security cannot be sustained by force alone; they must be nurtured through positive narratives, civic engagement, and inclusive communication.
“This is where the media have a unique and powerful role to play.”
General Musa also praised Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), and his troops for their relentless efforts in neutralizing terrorist threats in the Northeast.
He assured continued support for the welfare of military personnel.
In his keynote address, Major General Abubakar echoed the need for a robust media-military partnership to tackle Nigeria’s multifaceted security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes.
He emphasized that these battles are fought not only on the ground but also in the realm of public perception, where the media plays a pivotal role.
Abubakar highlighted the dangers of misinformation and sensationalism, which can undermine military efforts and threaten national security.
“These challenges must be confronted not by pointing fingers but by building bridges,” he said, advocating for structured and timely communication protocols to ensure accurate and responsible information dissemination.
He also called for periodic training for journalists in conflict-sensitive reporting and for military personnel in media relations to foster mutual understanding.
“In consolidating media-military synergy, we are not only strengthening our national security framework, we are also cultivating the very soil from which peace can grow and thrive,” Abubakar concluded.
“May this gathering mark a new chapter where the pen and the sword, the lens and the uniform, work hand in hand for the Nigeria we all believe in.”
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, represented by Professor Usman Tar, Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, lauded the military’s efforts under General Musa’s leadership and the Directorate of Defence Media Operations for fostering media engagement.
He urged journalists to avoid spreading fake news, which could jeopardize counterterrorism efforts, governance, and development, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to press freedom.
The seminar featured insightful presentations, including one by Professor Usman Tar, a former lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy, on “ _Strategic Communication as a Tool for Strengthening Civil-Military Relations in Conflict Zones.”_
Professor Abubakar Mu’azu from the University of Maiduguri’s Department of Mass Communication also spoke on “ _Ethical Journalism and Responsible Reporting in Security Matters: Building Trust for National Unity.”_
The event underscored the shared commitment of the military and media to fostering peace and security through collaboration, accurate reporting, and strategic communication.
