Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede has urged Nigerian journalists to uphold truth, professionalism and responsible reporting to strengthen national unity and security.
By Joy Onu, ABUJA
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, has called on journalists to uphold truth, accuracy and professionalism in their work, describing responsible reporting as essential to national unity and security.
Speaking through Tukur Gusau, who represented him at an Easter retreat organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory Council in Abuja, the defence chief said the role of the media has become increasingly critical at a time when the country continues to confront various security challenges.
According to him, modern security efforts extend beyond military operations to the management of information, making the media a key partner in shaping public understanding and strengthening trust.
“In today’s information age, security operations are fought not only on the battlefield but also in the information domain. Accurate and responsible reporting strengthens national unity and builds public trust,” he said.
Oluyede noted that Nigeria has faced complex threats ranging from terrorism and insurgency to banditry and other forms of criminality, but maintained that the Armed Forces remain committed to safeguarding the nation and restoring stability in affected areas.
Drawing a connection with the Easter season, he said the Christian message of resurrection represents hope, renewal and resilience, expressing optimism that the country would overcome its present difficulties.
He also urged citizens to support security agencies through cooperation, credible information sharing and continued prayers for troops deployed in operational theatres, while paying tribute to fallen soldiers.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, in his remarks, stressed the broader role of journalism in strengthening democratic governance and public accountability.
Badaru said ethical journalism helps build trust within society by promoting transparency, exposing wrongdoing and ensuring leaders remain accountable to the people.
“A nation is not built only with infrastructure, but with trust, accountability and an informed citizenry. Ethical journalism shines light into dark corners and holds leaders accountable,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, encouraged journalists to reflect on their professional responsibilities and recommit themselves to the ideals of truth, integrity and fairness.
She noted that journalists working within the Federal Capital Territory occupy a strategic position in national discourse, as their reports often influence policy debates and public perception.
While acknowledging the challenges confronting the profession, including tight deadlines and risks associated with investigative reporting, Ike urged practitioners to remain united and committed to the principles that sustain press freedom.
The retreat, themed “Resurrection Power: Grace, Faith, Hope and New Life,” brought together journalists, security officials and other stakeholders to reflect on the intersection of faith, professional ethics and national development.
