By Igho Akeregha
The Chief of Defense Staff, General Leo Irabor has called for an end to the notion of ‘we’ against ‘them’ as he sought urgent partnership between the media and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to finally put an end to insecurity in the country.
Speaking at a parley between the Defence Headquarters and media executives in Abuja on Wednesday, General Irabor said the media and the armed forces have a common cause that binds them, that of liberty and freedom for all in the country.
He noted that the interaction will help to deepen understanding of both sides and put the media and the armed forces on the same page adding, that the military and media practitioners have a role to play in the social-economic development of Nigeria.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of The Media Today International, Barrister Charles Odenigbo who co-facilitated the interface with the theme: The Rike if Editors in National Security and Conflict Sensitive Communication, said the meeting marked a new beginning in media-military relations. He cited section 22 of the constitution which places a responsibility on the media to hold public officers accountable.
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Odenigbo appealed to Nigerians and particularly the military to assist Journalists in the discharge of their duties even as he called on the media to remain patriotic to their country.
In his opening speech, Major General O.J. Akpor, Director Defence Information noted that the media is recognized for its role as a critical stakeholder in building sustainable trust for National security.
According to him, the interaction with the Chief of Defense Staff will produce a deeper understanding of the role of the armed forces in combating security challenges in the country.
