The Federal Government is considering a new initiative that would allow journalists to accompany military personnel during selected operations as part of efforts to improve security reporting and deepen public understanding of the country’s security challenges.
Akelicious reports that the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd), disclosed this on Thursday at the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Abuja.
Musa, who was represented by his Special Adviser, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, said the proposal was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the media and security agencies while promoting greater transparency in military operations.
The minister said the media plays a critical role in shaping public perception of security efforts and national stability, particularly in an era where information and public narratives significantly influence modern conflicts.
According to him, security management is no longer restricted to the battlefield, noting that journalists have become vital stakeholders in the nation’s security architecture.
“More than ever before, the media are not only enablers; they are stabilisers of government,” he said.
Musa stressed that effective security communication was essential to building public confidence and ensuring citizens have a clear understanding of ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity.
The Defence Minister revealed that the ministry was exploring modalities for embedding journalists with military formations during operations.
“The defence ministry is exploring arrangements to embed journalists with military units during operations to enable more accurate reporting and deeper understanding of operational realities,” he stated.
He explained that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance engagement between the military and the media, with the goal of ensuring that information on security operations is accurately communicated to the public.
Musa noted that the success of military operations should not be assessed solely by battlefield achievements but also by the level of public trust in security institutions.
He said stronger cooperation between journalists and security agencies would help counter misinformation, improve public understanding of security challenges and contribute to better national security outcomes.
According to him, fostering mutual understanding between both institutions remains critical to achieving lasting peace and stability across the country.
The proposal comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security threats, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes in various parts of the country.
