By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO -In a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s counter insurgency architecture, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division Nigerian Army, Sokoto, and Commander Sector 2, Joint Task Force (JTF) Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Paul Bemgha Koughna, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the media to combat terrorism and insurgency in the Northwest.

Speaking on Thursday while receiving executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel, Sokoto State, on a courtesy visit at the 8 Division Headquarters, the GOC underscored the strategic importance of the media in modern warfare, describing journalists as critical partners in both kinetic and non kinetic operations.

He stressed that beyond battlefield engagements, the fight against insecurity requires winning the hearts and minds of citizens through credible, timely, and balanced information dissemination a responsibility he said the media is uniquely positioned to fulfill.

“The media serves as the bridge between the military institution and the Nigerian people,” Major General Koughna said.

“Your role in disseminating factual, accurate and balanced reports is instrumental in countering misinformation, reducing confusion, and preventing sensational narratives that may undermine national security efforts.”

The GOC noted that the Nigerian Army recognizes the power of responsible journalism in shaping public perception and fostering trust, particularly at a time when security operations across the Northwest demand sustained public cooperation.

He commended members of the Correspondents’ Chapel for their professionalism and adherence to verifiable facts in reporting security developments, stating that accurate reportage strengthens public confidence in ongoing military operations.

Major General Koughna, the 11th GOC of the 8 Division, reiterated that the Army would continue to leverage civil military relations initiatives as a core component of its operational strategy.

According to him, humanitarian outreach and community engagement remain vital tools in building civil cooperation and isolating criminal elements.

Providing updates on recent security concerns, the GOC assured that normalcy has been restored in Tidibale village following reports of residents fleeing the area due to security threats.

“All is now calm. The community is secured and safe for residents to resume their normal activities,” he stated, reaffirming the Division’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal networks operating in the region.

Earlier, Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in Sokoto State, Mr. Ankeli Emmanuel, said the visit was aimed at reinforcing the longstanding working relationship between the media and the military in promoting peace, unity, and national development.

He pledged continued objective reportage of military operations, especially during critical security situations in the Northwest and across Nigeria, emphasizing that responsible journalism remains essential in supporting national stability.

The renewed partnership signals a broader national outlook in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy one that recognizes that the battle against insecurity is fought not only with arms, but also with truth, transparency, and public trust.