The General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola, has urged defence correspondents to ensure balanced and accurate reporting of security information.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Iweha Ikedichi,Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations Headquarters 81 division said the GOC made the call when he received members of the Association of Defence Correspondents of Nigeria (ADCON), who paid a courtesy visit to 81 Division.
Speaking at the occasion, the GOC described the media and defence correspondents as a key partner the military will collaborate with. He urged journalists to seek clarification from relevant military formations in order to have balanced reportage on occurrence that involves security issues. “You are one of the most important sectors that we, the military, must partner with. Balancing reportage is very key. Bad news goes faster,” he said, noting that negative reports often linger even after situations improve.
The GOC urged defence correspondents to ensure that their reports reflect the sacrifices of troops noting that there has been great improvement in the security situation in all part of the country since Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu assumed Command of the Army. He assured that the division headquarters would always be open to them to seek clarification on military activities and help to inform the public of the sacrifices made to ensure law abiding citizens sleep with there 2 eyes closed.
Earlier, in his remarks, ADCON Chairman, Philip Nwosu reaffirmed commitment to accurate reporting and accountability. He averred that ADCON was established as a credible, professional platform, consisting of journalists specialising in coverage of security institutions.
According to him, Defence reportage is a specialized area of reporting which requires journalists with understanding of military operations, security procedures and national security considerations. He equally noted that the balance between the publics right to know must go hand in hand with legitimate operational sensitivities.
The visit was characterized by a warm atmosphere with exchange of views. It ended with an exchange of souvenirs.
