DBDC INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE PUBLICATIONS & EVENTS UK LTD

Photo credit:Nigerian Ministry of Defence

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has called on media organisations to exercise professionalism and responsibility in their reporting, warning against the dissemination of terrorist propaganda that could undermine national security efforts.

Speaking to journalists following a strategic meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs, the Minister emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping public perception during ongoing security operations across the country.

According to Gen. Musa, irresponsible reporting that inadvertently promotes terrorist messaging risks demoralising troops on the frontlines while providing undue visibility to criminal groups. He urged journalists to prioritise national interest and security considerations in their coverage.

The high-level meeting focused on reviewing operational strategies across various theatres of operation, as Nigerian security forces continue to confront terrorism, banditry and other security threats affecting national stability.

Despite acknowledging that the Armed Forces have sustained casualties in the line of duty, the Minister highlighted recent operational successes. He noted that security forces have inflicted significant losses on terrorist and bandit groups, including the elimination of key commanders and the destruction of strategic assets.

Gen. Musa reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace and unity across the country, stressing that the fight against insecurity requires a coordinated and collective approach.

He also called on citizens to support security agencies by providing credible intelligence that could assist ongoing operations. At the same time, he warned that individuals found aiding criminal groups—whether through information sharing or logistical support—would be treated as accomplices and face the full weight of the law.

Reassuring the public, the Defence Minister stated that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening the capabilities of the Armed Forces and ensuring sustained progress in addressing security challenges nationwide.

The meeting was attended by senior defence officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oloyede, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Lieutenant General Emmanuel Udieandeye.

Source: Queenet Iheoma-Hart(CIO), Director, Press and Public relations