…. Seeks Deeper Relations With Defence Correspondents
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has called for closer collaboration between the military and the media, saying responsible journalism remains a critical component of Nigeria’s efforts to address the country’s growing security challenges.
The minister made the call while receiving the executive members of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
Speaking against the backdrop of the country’s evolving security environment, Musa said the nature of modern warfare, particularly asymmetric conflicts, demands a strong partnership between the Armed Forces and the media to ensure Nigerians receive accurate, timely and credible information.
“The military really needs the media at this period of asymmetric warfare. My office will continue to maintain an open-door policy to foster a cordial relationship with the media and ensure the dissemination of accurate information to the public,” the minister said.
He noted that while security agencies continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging threats, the media has a complementary role in promoting public confidence through factual and balanced reporting.
According to him, credible information is a strategic tool in countering misinformation and disinformation, which are increasingly being exploited by criminal and terrorist groups.
“We encourage defence correspondents to remain fair, balanced and professional in their reportage, as responsible journalism is vital to national security and public trust,” Musa stated.
The minister assured the journalists that the Ministry of Defence would sustain its engagement with the media and give due consideration to proposals presented by the association.
“We have taken note of your requests. The Ministry will carefully examine them, and those that are practicable will be implemented. We believe that a stronger relationship with the media will enhance public understanding of our activities and support our collective efforts to secure the nation,” he added.
Earlier, President of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Mr. Odita Sunday, congratulated Musa on his appointment, describing it as a recognition of his distinguished military career, professionalism and commitment to national service.
He announced that the association would confer on the minister the title of Grand Patron of DECAN during its Conference and Award Ceremony scheduled for October 2026. The event will also feature the launch of the association’s publication titled Defence Correspondents.
“Your appointment is a testament to your years of dedicated service, professionalism and commitment to the security of our nation. We are honoured to confer on you the title of Grand Patron of DECAN in recognition of your support for defence journalism,” Odita said.
He reaffirmed DECAN’s commitment to responsible, factual and balanced reportage of defence and security issues, stressing that the association would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting national security through professional journalism.
Odita also commended officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their sacrifices in defending the country’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities.
He called for sustained engagement between the Ministry of Defence and defence correspondents, saying regular access to credible information would improve public understanding of military operations and strengthen confidence in the Armed Forces.
“Stronger cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and defence correspondents will boost public confidence in the Armed Forces, promote patriotism and ensure Nigerians have access to credible, accurate and timely information on the activities of the Ministry of Defence,” he said.
The visit ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation in the interest of national security, transparency and responsible public communication.
