As violent incidents persist in Plateau, Benue, Borno and other parts of Nigeria, the Federal Government has reiterated its firm resolve to end terrorism, banditry and insurgency, pledging stronger efforts to restore national peace and security.
Speaking at a first-quarter seminar for senior media stakeholders in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the Tinubu administration is taking deliberate steps to address the security crisis through targeted investments in military equipment, personnel training and intelligence operations.
The minister, who was represented by the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mr Jibrin Ndace, noted that the Federal Government is committing significant resources to strengthen the capacity of the armed forces and overhaul Nigeria’s intelligence framework.
“The Tinubu administration remains resolute in its mission to defeat these threats and ensure the safety of every Nigerian,” he said. “A key pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda is securing the country through focused investment in the right tools, advanced systems and highly trained personnel.”
Idris also called on the media to avoid amplifying the actions of terrorists, warning that excessive coverage of violent acts can embolden perpetrators and foster public anxiety.
“The press, as the conscience of the nation, must maintain a careful balance between the public’s right to information and the imperative to uphold national security,” he said. “I appeal to media practitioners to deprive terrorists of undue publicity.”
He urged the media instead to draw more public attention to the bravery of Nigeria’s armed forces and the resilience of communities affected by violence.
“Our courageous military men and women continue to reclaim territory, rescue hostages and restore calm across different regions. Their efforts deserve wider recognition,” he added.
Also speaking at the forum, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, spoke on the evolving influence of the media in contemporary military engagements.
“In today’s security landscape, the media is not merely an observer. It plays an active role at the tactical, operational and strategic levels, particularly within the information domain,” Musa said.
He underscored the need for close coordination between military efforts and media reporting, especially in countering disinformation and building public trust.
“With the rapid pace of the 24-hour news cycle and the power of social media, it is now critical for commanders and media professionals to collaborate effectively, ensuring that accurate and timely messages reach the intended audiences,” he said.
The seminar brought together senior journalists, editors, defence officials and communication strategists to reflect on national security communication and the press’s responsibility in preserving peace and unity.
