Media Professionals Trained On Ethical News Coverage Of Military Operations
By Akudiang Comfort, Jos
Journalists in Plateau State convened in Jos for a one-day training session aimed at addressing ethical and security concerns when reporting military operations.
The event, organized by the Correspondent’s Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) seeks to refine the skills of media practitioners as they navigate the complex relationship between press freedom and operational security in conflict situations.
Mr. Polycarp Auta, Chairman of the Correspondent’s Chapel, underscored the significance of maintaining journalistic integrity and understanding military protocols while ensuring accurate and responsible news reporting.
He said the training titled “Ethics and security considerations in the media coverage of military operations,” is designed to encourage responsible media practices and strengthen public trust through discussions on best practices and ethical challenges in conflict reporting.
In a keynote address, Brig. Gen. M.O. Agbi, Chief of Staff at Operation Safe Haven, Maj.-Gen. A.E. Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding 3 Armoured Division, highlighted the necessity of building a collaborative relationship between the military and media professionals.
He acknowledged journalists’ crucial role in public information dissemination and transparency while stressing the need for responsible coverage that strikes a balance between media liberty and national security.
Maj. Gen. Abubakar urged journalists to uphold ethical standards in their reporting, ensuring sensitivity to the experiences of families and communities affected by conflicts.
He pointed out that sensational or inaccurate reporting can undermine public trust and jeopardize military objectives, reiterating the crucial nature of ethical journalism during military operations.
The GOC also emphasized the importance of security in media coverage, calling on journalists to respect operational security and the safety of military personnel.
He advocated for a cooperative partnership that fosters national unity and trust through responsible reporting.
During the training, Maj. Aliyu Danja, Acting Director of Public Relations for the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, stressed the integral role of media in conflict reporting.
He urged journalists to provide balanced and responsible coverage without promoting any specific agenda, advocating for professional distance from conflicts to avoid bias and ensure comprehensive perspectives.
Danja also encouraged reporters to understand the root causes of conflicts, aiming to report in ways that contribute to peaceful resolutions.
Mr. Ephraim Sheyin, the former Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), highlighted the significance of ethics and security in military reporting.
He emphasized the need for journalists to comprehend military structures and terminologies to avoid sensationalism that could threaten national security and public trust.
Sheyin called for responsible and accurate media practices, advocating for collaboration between the military and the press to enhance awareness without compromising security.
In a goodwill message, CP Emmanuel Adesina, Commissioner of Police for Plateau State Command, represented by Destu Ringle, stressed the value of responsible media reporting on military matters.
He encouraged journalists to concentrate on positive narratives that can mitigate negative propaganda and support peace building efforts.
He commended the organizers of the training and urged continued collaboration in peace initiatives.
Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership between the media and the military.
She emphasized the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and urged fellow journalists to commit to promoting peace, unity, and national security through their reports.
Pwaspo reaffirmed the NUJ’s dedication to delivering balanced and ethical information while collaborating with all relevant stakeholders.
