The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) in Abuja has issued a formal call for heightened collaboration between the Nigerian military and the media establishment to combat the escalating threat of hostile propaganda. Major General Michael Onoja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, expressed deep concern regarding the proliferation of false narratives that undermine the integrity of the Armed Forces. During a courtesy visit from the newly elected leadership of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN), General Onoja emphasized that a unified front between the military and the press is now a national security imperative.
A primary driver of this growing concern, according to the DHQ, is the unregulated nature of social media platforms, which have increasingly become conduits for misinformation and deliberate disinformation. General Onoja noted that much of the damaging content currently circulating is motivated by parochial economic interests rather than a genuine pursuit of the truth. He lamented that many individuals prioritize online engagement and financial gain over the stability of the nation, often disregarding the severe implications their reports have on the reputation of the military and the safety of the country at large.
General Onoja clarified that the military does not view the press as an adversary, but rather as an essential partner in sustaining public confidence and transparency. He urged media practitioners to exercise greater responsibility and restraint, particularly when reporting on sensitive security matters. By providing balanced coverage, journalists can play a crucial role in preventing divisive reportage that threatens Nigeria’s social cohesion. He encouraged the media to view their role as a service to the nation, where objective reporting serves as a buffer against those attempting to destabilize the country through fabrications.
Furthermore, the Director reaffirmed the military’s commitment to an open-door policy, inviting journalists to reach out for clarification before publishing sensitive stories. While he expressed a desire for greater transparency, he also underscored the necessity of operational security. He explained that there are instances where intelligence and tactical information must be withheld to protect troops on the front lines. He assured DECAN members that such delays are born of necessity to prevent hazardous outcomes for military personnel, rather than an attempt to suppress information of public interest.
The engagement highlighted the concept that media operations are now as vital to modern military campaigns as traditional combat maneuvers. General Onoja pointed out that the strategic communication office within the DHQ was established specifically to bridge the gap between battlefield operations and the public domain. Because public perception is formed heavily by how information is communicated, the military is eager to ensure that credible, factual updates are provided regularly to counteract the influence of hostile actors who thrive on confusion and skewed narratives.
Responding to the military’s overtures, the President of DECAN, Sunday Odita, acknowledged the depth of the partnership, describing the relationship as vital for national stability. He reaffirmed that defence correspondents are committed to their role as a bridge between the Armed Forces and the citizenry. By maintaining a standard of accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting, DECAN seeks to complement the physical sacrifices of the troops by protecting the truth of their operations. The meeting concluded with both parties pledging to continue their professional dialogue in the interest of a more secure and better-informed nation.