How journalists can help fight insecurity – Army

The Commander, 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Katsina State, Brigadier-General Babatunde Omopariola, says newsmen can help tackle insecurity through  developmental journalism.

Omopariola  who was speaking  on Friday during a luncheon with members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Katsina State Council, said, “The luncheon was organised specifically to provide a relaxed atmosphere for networking and active engagement between the Media and the Nigerian Armed Forces at large.

“Media plays an ever-increasing role in shaping public opinion and thus influencing military operations and galvanising public support as we progress into the information age.

“Embedding journalists in the planning and conduct of military operations would help greatly in checking negative reports on the activities of security agencies.

“It also serves as a platform for the military to engrave its friendship with the media and bridge the existing divide between them”

He urged  journalists to be conscious of patriotism to their country rather then dwell on reports that can undermine   national interest and security.

“Moments like this remind troops of the significance of loyalty, obedience and sacrifice as well as providing a unique opportunity for troops to reflect and readjust efforts towards justifying the confidence reposed in them by Nigerians,” he said.