Adopt Development Journalism To Enhance Security- CDS Urges Media

The Chief of Defence Staff CDS, General Christopher Musa, has called on the media to adopt development journalism as a means of supporting military operations and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He made the appeal during a Roundtable on Nigeria’s Security and National Interest organized by the National Counter Terrorism Centre NCTC, Office of the National Security Adviser ONSA, for Defence Correspondents in Abuja.

In a keynote address, General Musa emphasized the critical role of development journalism in creating public awareness and understanding of defence and security issues.

He stated that this approach not only holds government and stakeholders accountable but also aids decision-making by policymakers and defence officials.

The Defence boss further highlighted the importance of a people-centric approach to national security, stating that
National security should not solely rely on the Armed Forces but must be bolstered by an educated, healthy, and socially cohesive population underpinned by development journalism.

Reflecting on the theme of the discussion, National Security and National Interest: A Development Journalism Approach for the Defence Beat, General Musa described it as timely and relevant, stressing that it underscores the intersection of national pride, global responsibility, peaceful coexistence, and sustainable development,

In a good will message, the Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria VON, Jibrin Baba-Ndace, commended the initiative, noting that it would enhance the capacity of defense correspondents to provide balanced and responsible reporting.

He urged sustained collaboration between the military and the media to counter terrorist narratives effectively.

Earlier, the National Coordinator of NCTC, Major General Adamu Laka, underscored the pivotal role of journalists in shaping public perception and policies on national security.

He urged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness, and sensitivity in their reporting to counter misinformation and terrorist propaganda.

Major General Laka said the roundtable aimed to foster open dialogue and deepen understanding of terrorism’s evolving tactics while exploring the ethical dimensions of reporting on such sensitive issues.

Former Defence Spokesman, Major General Chris Olukolade (retired), in a paper presentation emphasized the importance of fact-checking in defence reporting to avoid disseminating false or exaggerated claims that could undermine security efforts.

He stressed that defence eporting should prioritize safeguarding national unity and security above all else.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment to fostering a stronger partnership between the media, the military, and other stakeholders to advance national security and stability.

Aisha Adesanya , Edited By Grace Namiji