Military urges Plateau journalists to uphold ethical standards in reporting operations

By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –

The Nigerian military has called on journalists to prioritize ethical standards and security considerations in reporting military operations, stressing the role of responsible journalism in fostering national unity and operational integrity.

The Grand Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Armored Division and Commander of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), Maj.-Gen. A.E. Abubakar, made this appeal during a one-day media training organized by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Plateau State, in collaboration with OPSH.

Speaking on the theme “Ethics and Security Considerations in Media Coverage of Military Operations,” Maj.-Gen. Abubakar, represented by Brig. Gen. M.O. Agbi, Chief of Staff of OPSH, underscored the vital role ethical journalism plays in fostering peace and accountability. He emphasized that trust among the military, media, and public can only be achieved through accurate and balanced reporting

He said: “Our goal is to foster a partnership with the media that ensures accurate and balanced reporting while safeguarding sensitive operational details”

“Ethics form the foundation of credible journalism. Inaccurate or sensational reporting not only erodes public trust but also jeopardizes operational success and endangers lives.

“Journalists have a duty to ensure their work contributes to national unity and security, particularly in sensitive times. We believe the media can be an ally in shaping public understanding of military operations and reinforcing societal trust.”

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Plateau State, Mr. Polycarp Auta, emphasized the importance of the training in navigating the complexities of reporting on military activities.

He noted that the theme was particularly relevant, providing journalists with practical strategies to tackle ethical dilemmas in conflict zones.

“Our objective today is to cultivate a media landscape that values transparency while also addressing security concerns,” Auta stated.

Delivering a presentation on “Understanding Military Structures and Operations as a Crucial Guide to Effective Media Coverage,” the Acting Director of Public Relations, 3 Division, Major Aliyu Danja, explained the significance of understanding military structures and protocols for accurate reporting.

He emphasized that journalists must navigate challenges posed by the military’s culture of discipline and secrecy while maintaining ethical standards to prevent misinformation.

“Effective media coverage of military operations requires a clear understanding of the military’s organizational structure and hierarchy. Journalists must recognize the nature of our operations, such as offensive and counterinsurgency missions, which are critical to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges,” Danja said.

He advocated for the establishment of clear guidelines for media engagement with the military and leveraging social media to balance transparency with operational security.

According to him, training journalists on military operations would enhance their capacity for balanced reporting and promote collaboration between the media and armed forces.

The former Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr. Ephraim Sheyin, warned against sensational reporting of terrorism and insurgency, stating that excessive coverage could inadvertently embolden insurgents.

He called on journalists to prioritize national security and peacebuilding while protecting their sources, particularly in conflict-sensitive environments.

Sheyin emphasized the importance of trust between journalists, military spokespersons, humanitarian workers, and victims of conflict, noting that confidentiality is crucial for safeguarding lives. “Responsible journalism should support national peacebuilding efforts and strengthen relationships between the media and security agencies,” he added.

The training brought together journalists from across Plateau and representatives of security agencies, emphasizing the importance of constructive engagement to promote balanced reporting and strengthen relationships with the military