The Defence Headquarters has expressed concern over what it described as growing hostile propaganda against the Nigerian military, calling for stronger collaboration with the media to counter false narratives, misinformation and fake news.
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The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, stated this in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the newly elected executive committee of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria to his office at the Defence Headquarters.
Onoja said cooperation between the military and the media had become necessary to address hostile narratives targeted at the Armed Forces and to promote national security.
According to him, social media platforms have become major channels for the spread of misinformation and disinformation, with some persons allegedly circulating fake news for readership, online engagement and financial gain without considering the damage to national security and Nigeria’s image.
“We are very concerned about hostile propaganda. If we partner the media, we will make greater progress in countering false narratives. The press is not our enemy; they are partners who help inform Nigerians about what the military is doing,” he said.
He urged journalists to support national security and social cohesion through balanced and responsible reporting.
“Whatever you publish should enhance national security and national cohesion. We should avoid divisive reportage that could worsen existing tensions in the country,” he added.
Onoja reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to providing accurate and factual information to the public, encouraging journalists to seek clarification whenever they are in doubt.
“I operate an open-door policy. If you have any doubt, you are free to ask,” he said.
He, however, explained that operational security sometimes prevents the immediate release of certain information, stressing that delays in disclosure should not be interpreted as concealment.
“Sometimes information cannot be released immediately because of operational security, not because we are hiding it. Some information is sensitive and premature disclosure could have serious consequences on troops’ operations,” he said.
The defence spokesman described media operations as a critical part of modern military campaigns, noting that effective communication helps shape public perception, counter misinformation and sustain public confidence in ongoing security operations.
“Media operations is one of the lines of operation that is very important whenever the military is conducting operations. That is why this office was created, and we are committed to partnering with the media to ensure that only accurate information is made available to the public,” he stated.
Earlier, the President of DECAN, Sunday Odita, described the relationship between the Defence Headquarters and defence correspondents as a strategic partnership aimed at promoting national security and strengthening public confidence in the Armed Forces.
“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.
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