The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has called for stronger collaboration with journalists to promote responsible security reporting, counter misinformation, and protect national interests.
This appeal was made by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, during an interactive session with the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, led by its Chairman, Ms. Grace Ike, during a courtesy visit to the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Air Commodore Ejodame described journalists as vital frontline partners in the country’s fight against insecurity, noting that media professionals and military personnel operate in different spheres but share the common goal of preserving lives and national unity.
“When you call yourselves frontline workers, that is exactly how we see you in the Air Force. We operate in different spaces, but both of us deal with information that can save lives,” he said.
“Media-Military Relations Must Be Built on Trust”
The NAF spokesperson likened the relationship between the military and the media to a marriage built on trust, respect, and discretion.
“Some conversations belong in the public domain, while others require restraint. When we decline to provide certain information, it’s not out of arrogance—it’s often to protect lives or sensitive operations,” he added.
He stressed the importance of information management during military operations, warning that the release of sensitive details—such as troop movements or casualty figures—could jeopardize missions or endanger personnel.
In the age of fake news and digital misinformation, he said, journalists have a greater responsibility to verify facts, provide context, and avoid narratives that may serve the interest of insurgents or hostile actors.
“Premature or inaccurate publications can inadvertently support the agenda of enemies of the state. National interest and the safety of security personnel should always guide media reports on military matters,” he emphasized.
NAF Emphasizes Smart, Civilian-Centric Operations
Air Commodore Ejodame highlighted the transformation of the Nigerian Air Force into a technology-driven and civilian-sensitive force that prioritizes precision operations and community safety.
“The Nigerian Air Force is not just about bombs and bullets. We are deploying smarter air power—precise, intelligence-led, and always conscious of protecting civilians,” he said.
He reiterated NAF’s commitment to community engagement, adding that the Force is eager to collaborate with the NUJ on training and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving defense and security journalism in Nigeria.
NUJ Commits to Responsible Journalism, National Unity
In her remarks, NUJ FCT Chairman, Ms. Grace Ike, commended the professionalism of the Nigerian Air Force and its recent successes in national security operations. She stressed the importance of open communication between the media and military to build public trust and tackle fake news.
“We understand the role of responsible reporting, especially in times of conflict and insecurity. Our visit is aimed at strengthening media-military cooperation, especially in the areas of information management, public enlightenment, and countering misinformation,” she said.
She also proposed collaborative efforts in Media training and capacity development, public awareness campaigns on national security and corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects
Ms. Ike used the opportunity to congratulate the Nigerian Air Force Football Team for winning the recently concluded NUJ FCT Football Tournament, describing their victory as a reflection of discipline, teamwork, and excellence—values that mirror those of the Air Force.
Both parties agreed on the need for sustained dialogue and collaboration in the interest of national security, peace, and development.
