By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has urged defence correspondents and journalists across the country to remain fair, balanced and professional in their reportage, stressing that responsible journalism is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s national interest and strengthening public confidence amid the nation’s evolving security challenges.
The call was contained in a statement jointly signed by the President of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN), Odita Sunday, and the association’s General Secretary, Musa Bologi, following a courtesy visit by the association’s executive members to the Minister at the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
“The military really needs the media at this period of asymmetric warfare. My office will continue to maintain an open-door policy to foster a cordial relationship with the media and ensure the dissemination of accurate information to the public,” General Musa said.
He assured the visiting delegation that the Ministry would carefully review the proposals presented by the association and immediately implement those considered feasible.
“We encourage defence correspondents to remain fair, balanced and professional in their reportage, as responsible journalism is vital to national security and public trust,” he added.
Earlier, the DECAN President congratulated General Musa on his appointment as Minister of Defence, describing it as a recognition of his professionalism, competence and distinguished service to the nation.
He disclosed that the association had resolved to confer on the Minister the title of Grand Patron of DECAN during its Conference and Award Ceremony scheduled for October 2026, where it will also unveil its publication titled Defence Correspondents.
“Your appointment is a testament to your years of dedicated service, professionalism and commitment to the security of our nation. We are honoured to confer on you the title of Grand Patron of DECAN in recognition of your support for defence journalism,” Odita stated.
The DECAN President reaffirmed the association’s commitment to responsible, balanced and factual reporting of defence and security issues, while commending the Armed Forces of Nigeria for the sacrifices of its personnel in protecting the country’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
He also appealed for deeper collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and defence correspondents through regular media engagements and the timely dissemination of defence-related information.
According to him, stronger cooperation between the Ministry and defence correspondents would enhance public confidence in the Armed Forces, promote patriotism and ensure Nigerians have access to credible, accurate and timely information on the activities of the Ministry of Defence.
Heritage Times HT reports that prior to his retirement and appointment as Defence Minister, Musa served as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
