Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, restated the Nigerian Army’s dedication to addressing the ongoing security challenges in the country during his statement yesterday (Wednesday).
However, he called for a synergistic partnership between the military and the media to enhance the nation’s internal security operations.
This statement was delivered by the COAS at the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation Quarterly Media Chat, which occurred at the Officers’ Mess in Agodi, Ibadan.
Gen. Lagbaja, who was represented at the event by the General Officer Commanding, GOC, of 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bamidele Alabi, said: ‘The Nigerian Army will continue to train and equip its forces to carry out kinetic operations in compliance with the approved rules of engagement and code of conduct for various theatres, within and outside the country.’
Speaking on the theme ‘Leveraging Media To Enhance Nigeria’s Internal Security Operations’, the Army chief said: ‘At a time like this, when the nation is inundated with a myriad of internal security challenges, the Nigerian Army under my leadership has adopted a multi-dimensional approach requiring the collaboration of all especially the media in confronting these challenges. Thus, a forum such as this media chat is important for a more detailed examination of issues that relate to the Nigerian Army, in order to provide context and other perspectives to the issues.’
Read also: Army Chief Worried Over Terrorists’ Kidnap-For-Ransom Tactics
‘Traditionally, the media keeps society informed of events as they occur including military operations. They interpret the military to society. The military on the other hand is concerned with the successful conduct of its missions which may require the maintenance of operational security required to win.’
‘However, a good part of the interface between the media and the military involves the reportage of routine military activities and the conduct of military personnel in peace time.’
The are also recommendations for fostering a favourable outlook that will maintain widespread support for the Army’s anti-terrorism endeavors and other initiatives aimed at safeguarding the nation and its innocent populace.
‘The media remains a key partner in our non-kinetic line of operation for the security of the country.’He asked for the provision of mobile police and military formations in the area to ensure the proper upkeep of law and order.