Maj.-Gen. Garba Wahab, Director General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), emphasized the importance of embedding journalists within military operations during a One-Day Seminar organized by the Defence Correspondent Association of Nigeria in Abuja.
The seminar, themed “Civil Military Relations: Non-kinetic efforts of the Nigerian Military in Security Management, Challenges and Prospects,” provided a platform for Wahab to underscore the benefits of journalists being involved in the planning and execution of military operations.
Wahab highlighted that embedding journalists would contribute significantly to countering negative reports about security agencies, fostering transparency, and enhancing the relationship between the military and the media.
He urged media practitioners to uphold patriotism in their reporting and avoid narratives that undermine national interests and security, while also emphasizing the importance of ethical journalism.
Concerned about media organizations blurring the lines between politics and national security, Wahab called for responsible reporting that adheres to professional ethics.
He emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, armed forces, and the media, ensuring that media interests are considered during military operations.
Retired Rear Adm. Yaminu Musa, representing the National Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, highlighted the evolving roles of the military in addressing non-conventional security threats and the crucial role of the media in building public trust and enhancing national security.
Maj.-Gen. Edward Baba, Director of Defence Media Operations, affirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the media for the nation’s interest.
Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, Acting Director of Defence Information, urged the media to exercise caution in reporting security issues to avoid compromising ongoing operations, emphasizing the military’s willingness to collaborate with the media as partners in progress.