Army Urges Journalists to Verify Information, Report Military Activities Objectively

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, has called on journalists to ensure accuracy and objectivity when reporting military activities, particularly matters relating to ongoing operations.

Mahmuda made the call when the Chairman of the Oyo State Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr Yinka Adeniran, led members of the chapel on a courtesy visit to the headquarters of 2 Division at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Ibadan, Oyo State.

According to a statement shared by the Nigerian Army on its official X platform on Thursday, the GOC emphasised the importance of strengthening the relationship between the military and the media to promote credible reporting and reduce the spread of misinformation, disinformation and fake news.

He described journalists as important partners in keeping the public informed about the activities and operations of the Nigerian Army, stressing that the dissemination of accurate and verified information was essential to helping Nigerians properly understand military operations.

Mahmuda urged journalists to verify information before publishing reports, especially when such reports concern sensitive military operations.

He said, “Always verify information before publication, particularly reports concerning military operations.”

The Army commander also acknowledged the important role of the media in informing the public about the military and said the Nigerian Army appreciated the contributions of journalists to national development.

He assured members of the Oyo State Correspondents Chapel that 2 Division remained willing to maintain an open and constructive relationship with the media.

He added that the Division would continue to explore opportunities for professional engagement and improved cooperation with journalists.

Earlier, Adeniran said the visit was organised to appreciate the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices, commitment and dedication to protecting the nation.

He commended officers and soldiers of 2 Division for their professionalism and commitment to duty, noting that the Division had continued to play an important role within its area of responsibility.

Adeniran also recalled the recent rescue of students in Orire Local Government Area, describing the incident as a reminder of the importance of effective communication and cooperation between security agencies and the media.

He said the chapel was interested in deepening its professional relationship with the Division through regular engagements, training opportunities and improved access to verified information concerning military activities.

According to him, closer cooperation between journalists and the military would enable reporters to gain a better understanding of military operations and, in turn, promote responsible and accurate journalism.

He added that improved access to verified information would also help reduce the spread of false reports and misleading information concerning security operations.

Adeniran expressed the readiness of members of the chapel to work closely with the Nigerian Army in promoting credible information and responsible journalism, while maintaining professional standards in the coverage of military activities.

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