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COAS calls for stronger ties with media
From Jude Chinedu and Geoffrey Anyanwu, Enugu
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. O.O. Oluyede, has reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the Nigerian Army to President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Speaking at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Quarterly Media Chat for the Fourth Quarter of 2024 in Enugu on Thursday, Oluyede also called for enhanced ties between the Nigerian Army and the media to address the nation’s pressing security challenges.
Delivering the keynote address, Gen. Oluyede commended President Tinubu for his strategic leadership and steadfast support to the Army, assuring Nigerians of the military’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s democracy and territorial integrity.
“I reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Specifically, I thank Mr. President for his strategic guidance and unflinching support to the Nigerian Army. I also thank the media and all patriotic Nigerians for their collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
“Your partnership has been instrumental in the successes we have achieved so far. I urge everyone to remain steadfast and continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the collective fight against our common adversaries,” he said.
He called for stronger ties between the Army and the media, noting that such efforts are pivotal in addressing the complex security challenges facing the nation.
“It is also crucial to avoid spreading misinformation or content that could jeopardise national unity and security. Through collaboration, we can enhance public understanding, build trust, and contribute to the greater good of our nation.
“This partnership should extend beyond conflict reporting to include national development and community engagement. By highlighting initiatives that improve the lives of citizens, we can promote a united front against violent armed groups and distractions from nation-building,” he said.
Speaking also, the Special Guest of Honour and Chairman, The Guardian Newspaper, Toke Ibru, called for more openness and accessibility on the part of the military so that correct information would drive out misinformation.
He said: “Indeed, misinformation thrives where there is a scarcity of correct information on the true situation. The military must make its higher leadership more accessible to the media so that its side of the story is better understood.
“Majority of media practitioners are capable of showing understanding and would refrain from publishing things that are clearly inimical to national security. But this can only happen if they have access to those that would convince them on this national security implication.”