By Njoku Chijioke
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerian journalists to embrace developmental journalism, urging them to tell evidence-based stories that positively portray the country and foster global confidence in Nigeria’s security efforts.
Speaking at a one-day roundtable organized by the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), in Abuja on Thursday, General Musa emphasized the role of the media in advancing national security and cohesion.
“Developmental journalism promotes public awareness, informs policy decisions, and holds stakeholders accountable while fostering national stability,” he said.
He urged journalists to collaborate with security agencies to amplify Nigeria’s sovereignty and safeguard its interests globally.
Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Major-General A.G. Laka, pledged the centre’s support for media initiatives aimed at countering terrorist propaganda and enhancing public understanding of security challenges.
In a keynote paper, Major-General Chris Olukolade (Rtd) highlighted the practices of Western journalists in handling sensitive security information.
“Journalists should focus on the human impact of security issues and prioritize national interest while maintaining professionalism,” he advised.
The event underscored the media’s critical role in shaping narratives that support Nigeria’s fight against insecurity and foster unity.