Oluyede Calls for Responsible Reporting Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding lives and property, while also calling on journalists to adopt responsible and conflict-sensitive reporting in order to combat disinformation and protect Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Oluyede made the call during the 2026 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council, held in Abuja under the theme, “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation.”
Represented by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Simila Uba, the Defence Chief described the theme as timely and significant given the evolving security and information challenges confronting the nation.
He noted that the media remains a critical pillar of democracy and an indispensable instrument for national cohesion, public enlightenment and accountability in contemporary society.
According to him, the Armed Forces have increasingly recognised the media as an essential partner in the collective effort to build a peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria.
Oluyede stressed that the relationship between the military and the press is not merely one of convenience but of necessity, explaining that while the military secures the physical environment, the media shapes and protects the information space.
The Defence Chief therefore underscored the importance of responsible journalism to national security, particularly in an era where information travels rapidly across digital platforms and social media.
He warned that the ethical responsibility of journalists has never been greater, urging media practitioners to verify information before publication, prioritise national interest without compromising truth and continue highlighting the sacrifices of military personnel serving in conflict zones.
