…Urges Trust-Building Mechanisms

By Anayo Okoli, Dennis Agbo & Chinedu Adonu

ENUGU – The Nigerian Army has emphasized the importance of fostering a robust civil-military relationship, particularly with the media, to build mutual trust and enhance national security.

Speaking at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) 2024 quarterly media chat in Enugu, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Maj. Gen. Hassan Taiwo Dada, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, highlighted the pivotal role of media collaboration in addressing complex security challenges.

Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed the Army’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Commander-in-Chief and commended his strategic leadership and unwavering support.

“Our partnership with the media has been instrumental in our successes. I urge everyone to continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the collective fight against common adversaries,” he said.

He called on media practitioners to avoid spreading misinformation that could threaten national unity, advocating for collaboration to enhance public understanding and build trust.

Toke Ibru, Chairman of The Guardian Newspaper and special guest of honor, underscored the need for greater military openness and accessibility to counter misinformation.

“Misinformation thrives in the absence of accurate information. The military must make its leadership accessible to ensure the media presents its side of the story effectively,” Ibru stated.

The event stressed that partnership between the Army, media, and civilians should extend beyond conflict reporting to national development and community engagement, promoting unity and resilience against security threats.