Abuja: Top spokespersons from the Nigerian Army and Air Force have emphasised the urgent need for a strategic partnership between the military and the media to bolster national security.
Speaking at a high-level forum in Abuja, the defence officials underscored the media’s critical role in shaping public perception, countering misinformation, and supporting military operations through responsible reporting.
They called for mutual trust, open communication, and shared commitment to Nigeria’s stability, noting that synergy between both institutions is essential in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
The week has the theme: “The Place of the Media in Shaping and Sustaining National Value.”
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, commended journalists for their role in amplifying the military’s efforts.
Maj Akinola Ajibola, Staff Officer in charge of Public Information, Army Public RelationS represented Anele.
She noted that the military’s efforts cannot really be amplified without the media to showcase its activities.
“The army is not known for showcasing its activities publicly, because a lot of its work is done in private.
“But, we appreciate the support of the media in amplifying our work; you have done so very well.
“We know that to ensure peace in the country, you don’t divulge all information at your disposal, but rather do your work as gatekeepers.
“We are grateful. We will keep counting on your support in ensuring that Nigeria progresses because we don’t have any other country,” he said.
The Acting Director of Army PRO noted that citizens would not be able to gather for events if the country is not safe.
Recalling an experience in Maiduguri in 2016, Anele spoke of the devastating impact of the insurgency, which prevented banks from operating, and of the army’s efforts to salvage the situation.
“What I am saying is that if we do not fight this insurgency, the insurgency will obviously fight us.
“The only way we can keep doing our best is by fighting them and demanding that journalists also project the efforts of the military in a good light,” she said.
Anele explained that news from the army might not go out as quickly as Nigerians want, especially in cases of attack, because they would need approval and gather all necessary information before releasing it.
“So, journalists should bear with us; we sincerely appreciate your efforts in supporting the Nigerian army and the nation,” she said.
Also speaking, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, commended NAN for packaging the programme.
Sqn.-Ldr Olayinka Lawal, the Assistant Director, Information, Nigerian Air Force, represented Ejodame. He described journalists as partners with the force.
He said the force’s efforts against insurgency are kinetic, accounting for 25 per cent, while non-kinetic efforts involving members of the public account for 75 per cent.
“So, that is why we keep coming back to the journalists and to Nigerians, for their support.
“I have been in some forums where journalists ask when the insurgency will end?.
“You should not ask us. Nigerians should ask themselves what they can do to end it. As I earlier said, we can only do 25 per cent.
“The fight against insurgency will need the collaboration of all Nigerians, and that is why in the last Nigerian Air Force Day celebration, the NAF base was opened to Nigerians to relate with the force,” he said.
Ejodame said the aim was to bring civilians closer to NAF and let them know that the officers are human beings too and are relatable.
“We had an opportunity to open our base, our barracks, to Nigerians to come and see us.
“We are part of you. You have family members in the Air Force. So, we are closely knitted.
“We have Gen Zs, we have young Nigerians on the war front, a lot is happening behind the scenes that we will not see every time.
“The soldiers on the warfront are people’s children, husbands and relatives who may not have seen their families for six months or a year fighting insurgency.
“So, always support the armed forces through intelligent information and put out a word of prayer for them,” Ejodame said.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Yusuf Yakub, commended NAN for its tireless efforts in promoting responsible journalism and fostering dialogue on issues of national importance.
Mrs Olubunmi Ojo, Head of Information and Public Relations, NTAC, represented Yakub.
He pointed out that NTAC recognises the media as a partner —an agency committed to promoting Nigeria’s soft power diplomacy.
He said that the agency projects national values, strengthens international cooperation, and amplifies the country’s image globally through truthful storytelling and civic engagement.
The Editor-in-Chief of NAN, Mr Mufutau Ojo, commended the agency for birthing the press week and the dignitaries for gracing the occasion.
“I want to congratulate the people who put this together; it was a magnificent outing,” he said.