CDS Urges Defence Correspondents to Sustain Support for Counter Terrorism Operations

General Oluyede made the appeal during a courtesy visit by DECAN executives to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja. His message was delivered by the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major General Sumaila Uba.

According to a statement signed by DECAN President, Odita Sunday, and General Secretary, Musa Umar Bologi, the CDS acknowledged the association's contributions to promoting the military's efforts against terrorism and urged journalists covering the defence beat to remain committed to reporting in the national interest.

"I am aware of what DECAN is doing in supporting our counter terrorism efforts. I urge you to continue supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces," Oluyede said.

Speaking on behalf of the Defence Headquarters, Maj.Gen. Uba commended defence correspondents for their professionalism and dedication to accurate reporting of military activities, noting that their work has continued to promote national security and public confidence in the Armed Forces.

He described the media as a strategic partner in projecting the sacrifices and achievements of troops while fostering public understanding of defence and security issues.

According to him, defence correspondents occupy a unique position in the media because they serve as a bridge between the military and the public by providing factual, balanced and responsible information.

Uba stressed that the growing threat of misinformation, disinformation, social media manipulation and the misuse of artificial intelligence has made responsible defence journalism more important than ever.

He urged journalists to verify all defence-related information through official military channels before publication, saying responsible reporting helps prevent the spread of false narratives that could undermine national security or embolden criminal elements.

"Responsible journalism strengthens national security by denying adversaries the opportunity to exploit false narratives designed to create fear, erode public confidence or damage the reputation of our Armed Forces," he said.

The Defence spokesperson also cautioned journalists against publishing classified military documents or sensitive operational information that could aid terrorist groups or compromise ongoing operations.

He advised media practitioners to always seek clarification from the appropriate military authorities before publishing sensitive information, stressing that safeguarding operational details remains in the collective interest of Nigerians.

Uba assured the association that the Defence Headquarters would continue to strengthen its relationship with the media through regular press briefings, interviews, media tours and capacity-building programmes while maintaining operational security.

Earlier, DECAN President Odita Sunday described the relationship between the association and the Defence Headquarters as a strategic partnership aimed at advancing national security through responsible journalism.

He said that while troops protect the country's territorial integrity on the battlefield, defence correspondents complement those efforts by informing and educating the public through credible and balanced reportage.

Odita commended the Directorate of Defence Information for providing journalists with access to operational theatres across the country, saying the initiative has enhanced the credibility and accuracy of reports on military operations.

He appealed for more regular operational briefings to enable journalists verify facts promptly and effectively counter misinformation, disinformation and hostile propaganda.

The DECAN president also disclosed that the association was concluding arrangements to launch its official magazine, The Defence Correspondent, which will document the activities and achievements of the Armed Forces and other defence institutions.

He further appealed to the Defence Headquarters to support the publication and consider establishing a dedicated Defence Correspondents Press Centre within one of its civil-military estates in Abuja to serve as a functional workspace and coordination hub for accredited defence journalists.