By Miriam Humbe
The Defence Headquarter (DHQ) has cautioned the media against publishing classified military documents or sensitive operational information capable of aiding terrorist groups, noting that some information must remain confidential until it no longer poses security risks.
This was contained in a statement jointly signed by President of Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), Odita Sunday and General Secretary, Musa Umar Bologi on Friday.
The military high command said while it recognized the media in promoting national security, fostering public confidence and projecting the sacrifices and achievements of our troops, publishing classified military information can play into the hands of adversaries.
“Whenever classified information comes into your possession, please verify it with the appropriate authorities before publication. Ultimately, safeguarding sensitive military information is in Nigeria’s collective interest,” Uba said.
“Defence Headquarters remains committed to transparency, credibility, and timely dissemination of information within the limits imposed by operational security.
“While some operational details cannot be disclosed for security reasons,we shall continue to engage the media through press briefings, press releases, interviews, media tours, and other strategic communication platforms.”
The DDI said that the rise of misinformation, disinformation, social media manipulation and artificial intelligence has made responsible defence reporting more critical than ever, urging journalists to always verify information through official military channels before publication.
“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 added.
Uba commended defence correspondents for the professionalism they consistently display in reporting military and defence-related issues. He noted that their reportage is guided by the national interest and the imperative of safeguarding national security.
“Defence correspondents occupy a unique position within the Nigerian media landscape.
“Your responsibility goes beyond reporting events. You serve as an important bridge between the military and the Nigerian public by providing factual, balanced and responsible information on defence and security matters,” he said.
Uba assured DECAN that the DHQ would continue engaging the media through press briefings, interviews, media tours and capacity-building programmes while maintaining operational security.
Delivering the message of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, to the delegation, the military spokesperson said that the CDS urged DECAN to sustain their support for the military’s counter-terrorism efforts through responsible and patriotic reportage.
“The CDS said I should tell you that he is aware of what DECAN is doing in supporting our counter-terrorism efforts, and urge you to continue supporting the efforts of the Armed Forces,” Uba said.
Earlier, DECAN President Odita Sunday described the relationship between the DHQ and DECAN as a “strategic partnership” in advancing national security through responsible journalism.
“While our gallant troops defend the nation’s territorial integrity on the battlefield, we complement their efforts by informing, educating and shaping public understanding through accurate, balanced and responsible reportage,” he said.
Odita commended the Directorate of Defence Information for granting journalists access to operational theatres across the country, noting that such opportunities have improved the credibility and accuracy of reports on military operations.
He appealed for more regular operational briefings to enable journalists to verify facts and counter misinformation, disinformation and hostile propaganda.
Odita also disclosed that the association was concluding plans to launch its official magazine, The Defence Correspondent, which would document the activities and achievements of the Armed Forces and other defence institutions.
He appealed to the Defence Headquarters to support the initiative and also consider establishing a dedicated Defence Correspondents Press Centre within one of its civil-military estates in Abuja.
“Such a centre would provide a functional workspace and serve as a central point through which defence correspondents can easily be reached, briefed and coordinated by military authorities whenever necessary,” he said.
