The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has underscored the critical role of the media in countering terrorist ideology and supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat the evolving threats of asymmetric warfare.
Musa stated this while receiving the executive members of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
He said effective collaboration between the military and the media was essential to ensuring that Nigerians received timely, accurate and credible information on defence and national security issues.
According to the minister, terrorism is driven not only by violence but also by extremist ideologies, which require strategic communication and public enlightenment to defeat.
“Terrorism begins with a radical ideology, and such an ideology cannot be defeated with military hardware alone; it must also be countered with information,” he said.
Musa noted that some citizens unknowingly amplify terrorist propaganda through social media, stressing that the media has a vital responsibility to educate the public, promote accurate narratives and discourage the spread of misinformation.
“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,” he added.
The minister also assured the delegation that the Ministry of Defence would consider proposals presented by the association and implement those deemed feasible.
He urged defence correspondents to uphold professionalism, fairness and balance in their reporting, noting that responsible journalism remains critical to national security and public confidence.
Earlier, DECAN President, Mr. Odita Sunday, congratulated Musa on his appointment as Minister of Defence, describing it as a testament to his professionalism, competence and distinguished service to the nation.
Sunday also announced 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.
