NAF calls for stronger collaboration with Journalists

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed the need for stronger collaboration and mutual understanding between the military and the media, describing journalists as strategic partners in safeguarding national security and promoting public confidence.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made the call on Thursday during an interactive session with the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, led by its Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.

Air Commodore Ejodame likened the relationship between the Air Force and the media to a marriage built on trust, honesty, and respect, stressing that both institutions play crucial but distinct roles in serving the public interest.

“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.

He cautioned that in military operations, information management requires sensitivity and discretion, noting that the release of certain operational details such as casualty figures or troop movements could jeopardise missions or endanger lives.

“When we decline to provide certain details, it is not secrecy or arrogance; it’s often a matter of protecting lives,” he added.

The NAF spokesperson emphasised that in the era of fake news and online misinformation, journalists have an even greater responsibility to verify and contextualise information, particularly reports related to national security. According to him, premature or inaccurate reporting could inadvertently serve the interests of insurgents or hostile elements.

Air Commodore Ejodame also noted that the Nigerian Air Force is transforming into a smarter, technology-driven, and people-centred force focused on intelligence, precision, and the protection of civilians.

“The Nigerian Air Force is not just about bombs and bullets. We are developing an Air Force that deploys smarter air power, technology-driven, precise, and sensitive to civilian safety,” he said.

He expressed NAF’s willingness to collaborate with the NUJ on capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening defence and security reporting, adding that such partnerships would promote responsible journalism and mutual trust.

In her remarks, NUJ FCT Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism and contributions to national security, pledging the union’s continued commitment to objective and responsible journalism.

“The Nigerian Air Force has continued to play a vital role in ensuring national security and unity. As journalists, we understand the importance of responsible reporting, especially in times of conflict and insecurity,” she said.

Ms Ike added that open communication between the media and the military was key to building public trust and countering misinformation. She also proposed collaboration in media training, public enlightenment, and corporate social responsibility projects to enhance professionalism and understanding.

The NUJ chairman used the opportunity to congratulate the Nigerian Air Force Football Team on its victory in the recently concluded NUJ FCT Football Tournament, describing the win as a reflection of discipline, teamwork, and excellence, qualities synonymous with the Air Force’s values.

The courtesy visit ended on a note of optimism, with both parties reaffirming their readiness to strengthen the partnership between the military and the media in promoting accurate, credible, and patriotic reporting for national peace and development.