Army Commander Calls for Developmental Journalism to Combat Insecurity

armyThe Commander of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, in Katsina State, Brigadier-General Babatunde Omopariola, has emphasized the importance of developmental journalism in efforts to address insecurity in the country.

Omopariola made the call during a luncheon with members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, led by its Chairman, Tukur Den-Ali. The event, which took place at the Command’s Officers’ Mess in Katsina, was organized in commemoration of the upcoming 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and to foster a stronger relationship between the military and the media.

During the event, Omopariola stressed that media plays a critical role in shaping public opinion, which can significantly influence military operations and galvanize public support. He underscored the need for better collaboration between the media and the armed forces, suggesting that embedding journalists in the planning and conduct of military operations could help counter negative reports about security agencies.

“The media’s increasing role in shaping public perception is vital as we progress into the information age,” Omopariola said. “By working together, we can ensure more balanced and accurate reporting, which will foster better understanding between the military and the media.”

The Brigade Commander also called on journalists to be patriotic in their work and avoid publishing stories that could undermine national security or the interests of the country.

Omopariola took the opportunity to highlight the significance of the season for military personnel, saying it serves as a time to reflect on values like loyalty, obedience, and sacrifice. He also paid tribute to colleagues who had fallen in the line of duty, promising that the Brigade would continue to provide for the welfare of their families.

In his remarks, Tukur Den-Ali, the NUJ Katsina Chairman, thanked the Brigade Commander and the officers for their warm reception. He reassured Omopariola that journalists in the state would continue to support the military and other security agencies, promoting interagency cooperation and providing media expertise whenever needed.

The event ended on a note of commitment to fostering a strong partnership between the military and the media in the shared goal of enhancing security and national development.