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Nigerian Army Hosts Fourth Quarter 2025 Media Chat in Jos, Seeks Stronger Civil–Military Collaboration
The Nigerian Army, through its Department of Civil–Military Affairs, on Thursday held its Fourth Quarter 2025 Media Chat in Jos, bringing together security experts, media practitioners, and academics to deepen discussions on security reporting and public trust.
The engagement, held at Crispan Suites and Event Centre, Rayfield, centred on the theme: “The Nigerian Security Environment: Role of Strategic Communication in Strengthening Civil–Military Relations.”
Retired Army spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Sani Kukasheka Usman (Rtd), stressed that truth, trust, transparency, and accountability remain the pillars of effective civil–military engagement. He noted that longstanding misconceptions—fueled by misinformation, disinformation, and poor synergy—continue to strain relations between the military and the media. He urged both institutions to identify themselves as partners in national development.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waheed Shaibu, the GOC 3 Division and Commander Operation Enduring Peace, Maj. Gen. Eyitayo Oyinlola, said the Army is increasingly exploring non-kinetic strategies to address security challenges. He highlighted the influence of ICT on information flow, warning that fake news, propaganda, and unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information pose real dangers to national security.
“This has necessitated deeper collaboration between the Nigerian Army and media stakeholders to build a formidable front against shared security challenges,” he said.
Chief of Civil–Military Affairs, Maj. Gen. Musa Etsu-Ndagi, explained that the theme was deliberately crafted to harmonize patriotic efforts between the Army and the media toward achieving national security goals. He appealed to journalists to uphold ethics and embrace truthful, responsible reporting to strengthen national unity and public confidence.
A lecture delivered by Prof. Eze Cosmos of the Mass Communication Department, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, examined strategic communication as a key tool in countering violent extremism and insurgency. He emphasized the importance of shaping narratives that support national stability.
Panel discussions featured senior military officers, scholars, and media leaders—including Maj. Gen. Mohammed Bello, Brig. Gen. Usman (Rtd), Prof. Taye Obatomi, and Chairperson of the NUJ Plateau State Council, Mrs. Ayiku Pwaspo—who deliberated on improving security reportage, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening public trust.
Special Guest of Honour and Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Mallam Salihu Dembos, represented by Mrs. Rifkatu Daniel, commended the Army for sustaining such engagements. He reaffirmed NTA’s commitment to promoting accurate, conflict-sensitive, and responsible journalism.
Plateau State Commissioner of Police, CP Emmanuel Adesina, in his goodwill message, praised the Army for fostering dialogue, noting that non-kinetic strategies remain essential in complementing efforts of security agencies.
Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Mr. Polycarp Auta, lauded the Army’s commitment to peacebuilding and urged continuous cooperation between the media and security institutions.
The media chat concluded with an interactive session between journalists and Maj. Gen. Etsu-Ndagi, aimed at strengthening feedback channels and deepening cooperation in the collective pursuit of national security.
The chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to revitalising hockey through infrastructure, grassroots development, and domestic competitions.
At the closing ceremony of the 2026 Nigeria Hockey Super League on Saturday in Abuja, Dikko commended the Nigeria Hockey Federation for successfully organising the tournament and repositioning the sport.
“This tournament perfectly aligns with the vision of the National Sports Commission under the Renewed Hope Initiative for a vibrant sports economy,” he said.
He said discussions with African Hockey Federation President Seif El Dine Ahmed and German experts confirmed Nigeria’s immense talent capable of competing globally with the right facilities.
Dikko said President Bola Tinubu approved the nationwide rehabilitation of sports infrastructure, with the national hockey pitch to be upgraded to international standards.
“We have already identified world-class turf in consultation with the African Hockey Federation. Once upgraded, Nigeria can host major African hockey tournaments.
“Sports bring Nigerians together irrespective of tribe, religion or background, serving as a national asset and driver of economic growth through jobs and tourism,” he said.
Also speaking, Abdul Ningi, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports Development, called for greater investment across all sporting federations, not just football.
“Over 20 sporting federations, yet only a few consistently receive attention. Sports development must be diversified so every federation grows and contributes to national development,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Osifo Emefile, expressed satisfaction with the Nigeria Police team’s performance at the championship.
Simeon Nkom, president of NHF, described the Super League as the most successful championship, citing the quality of the competition and the dignitaries in attendance.
“I can confidently say this is the best championship we have organised.
“The presence of NSC chairman, African Hockey Federation president, sponsors, partners, and media shows recognition hockey deserves,” he said.
He said the national hockey pitch built for the 2003 All Africa Games had reached the end of its lifespan and no longer met international standards.
“We are encouraged by the federal government’s commitment through NSC to rehabilitate the facility. Once the new turf is installed, Nigeria can host major African tournaments again, boosting development,” he said.
Kaduna-based Kada Stars defeated Plateau Tigers 3-2 in the men’s final, retaining the title.
The Kada Queens beat Plateau Queens 2-0 in the women’s to also retain their title.
(NAN)
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