Media practitioners in Plateau State have gathered in Jos for a one-day training program focused on the ethical and security considerations in reporting military operations.
The training, organized by the Correspondent’s Chapel, aims to enhance the professional skills of journalists in navigating the delicate balance between press freedom and operational security in conflict zones.
The Chairman of the Correspondent’s Chapel, Mr. Polycarp Auta, emphasized the importance of journalistic integrity and the need for journalists to understand military protocols while delivering accurate and responsible news coverage.
According to Auta, The training, titled “Ethics and Security Considerations in the Media Coverage of Military Operations,” aims to promote responsible reporting and public trust in media by discussing best practices in conflict reporting and ethical implications.
In his keynote address, Maj.-Gen. A.E. Abubakar, the Grand Officer Commanding 3 Amour Division and the Commander Operation Safe Haven, who was ably represented by the Chief of Staff, OPSH, Brig. Gen. M.O Agbi, emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative relationship between the media and the military. He acknowledged the vital role journalists play in informing the public and promoting transparency but stressed the need for responsible reporting that balances media freedom with national security.
Maj. Gen. Abubakar encouraged journalists to adhere to ethical standards, ensuring their coverage is accurate and sensitive to the impact on families and communities affected by conflict. The GOC reiterated that ethical journalism is crucial during military operations, as sensational or inaccurate reporting can erode public trust and jeopardize mission success.
Furthermore, The GOC stressed the importance of security in media coverage, urging journalists to respect operational security and military personnel’s safety. They emphasized the need for a mutually beneficial partnership, fostering trust and national unity through responsible reporting.
During the training, Maj. Aliyu Danja, Acting Director of Public Relations for the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, highlighted the vital role of the media in conflict reporting, stressing the importance of balanced and responsible coverage. He emphasized that journalists must present the truth while avoiding promoting any particular group’s agenda. Danja underscored the need for journalists to maintain professional distance from conflicts to avoid bias and ensure they can accurately report all perspectives. He also pointed out that media outlets should be mindful of the potential impact of their reports on peace and harmony, encouraging journalists to understand the root causes of conflicts and report on them in ways that contribute to peaceful resolutions.
Mr Ephraim Sheyin, the immediate past Editor-in-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), emphasized the importance of ethics and security considerations in media reporting of military operations. He highlighted the need for journalists to understand military structures, operations, and terminologies to avoid sensationalism and misrepresentation, which could undermine national security and public trust. Ethical reporting requires balancing the public’s right to information with the need to protect operational security. Sheyin called for responsible and accurate media coverage, fostering collaboration between the military and media to enhance public awareness without compromising security.
In a goodwill message, CP Emmanuel Adesina, Commissioner of Police in Plateau State Command, who was represented by Destu Ringle, emphasized the importance of responsible media reporting on military operations, urging journalists to focus on positive coverage to reduce negative propaganda and maintain peace. He commended event organizers and called for continued collaboration in peacebuilding efforts.
Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), expressed her gratitude for the ongoing partnership with the military, acknowledging the support received by members of the council. She emphasized the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and urged colleagues to focus on reports that promote peace, unity, and national security. Mrs. Pwaspo reassured that the NUJ is committed to providing balanced, ethical information while collaborating with all stakeholders.
