FG introduces policy allowing reporters to join troops during operations

The Federal Government is planning to introduce a program where journalists can join the military during selected operations.

It was reported that this is an effort to enhance security coverage and give the general public better understanding of how counter-insurgency and internal security operations are being conducted.

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, revealed this at the National Security Summit organised by Nigeria Union of Journalists held in Abuja on Thursday.

Addressing the gathering through his Special Adviser, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, the minister said this will enable the establishment of partnership between the media and the security agencies to ensure transparency in military operations.

Musa pointed out that the media has a strategic position in determining the public perception on security operations and the stability of the nation as security management now transcends the traditional battlefields.

According to him, the nature of war in recent time requires information and narratives and as such the media becomes stakeholders in the security system of the country.

He added that successful security operations do not only depend on military operations but the confidence of the citizens in the security agencies.

“More than ever before, the media are not only enablers; they are stabilizers of government.

“The defense ministry is exploring arrangements to embed journalists with military units during operations to enable more accurate reporting and deeper understanding of operational realities,” he said.

Musa said the initiative was part of broader efforts by the ministry to strengthen engagement with the media and ensure that information about military operations is conveyed accurately to the public.

He stressed that improved cooperation between journalists and security agencies would contribute to building public trust and enhancing national security outcomes.

The proposed arrangement comes as Nigeria continues to battle multiple security challenges, including insurgency.

Security agencies have often faced criticism over limited access to operational areas, a situation that has sometimes fuelled misinformation, conflicting reports and public skepticism about developments on the frontlines.