Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa has emphasized the importance of collaboration between the military and media in combating disinformation, describing it as a national security threat.
Speaking at the Diplomatic and Security International Conference organized by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) in Abuja, Musa stated that misinformation can erode public trust, destabilize communities, and embolden criminal networks.
The conference, themed “Diplomacy, Security, and the Media in a Changing World Order,” brought together diplomats, security experts, academics, and media professionals to discuss pressing global security issues and the rise of manipulated narratives. Musa, represented by Rear Admiral A.M. Haruna, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strategic engagement with the media to counter false narratives, particularly in conflict zones and during counterinsurgency operations.
Participants at the conference called for the institutionalization of regular media-diplomatic dialogues, joint training sessions for journalists and security agencies, and the creation of a national fact-checking task force to confront coordinated disinformation campaigns.
The conference also recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to diplomacy, security, and credible media practice, with General Musa receiving an award for excellence in fostering military-media relations.
The event highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to addressing security challenges, with speakers emphasizing the importance of accurate and timely information in countering false narratives. By working together, the military and media can promote responsible reporting and safeguard national security interests.