Nigerian Army Chief of staff
Nigerian Army Reaffirms Commitment to Media Partnership for National Security at Akure Forum
By Exponent News, Akure — June 21, 2025
In a significant reaffirmation of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to transparency, national security, and media collaboration, Chief of Army Staff, Major General O.O. Oluyede, ablely represented by Major Gen. Obinna Onubogu, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Nigerian Army, delivered a keynote address today in Akure during the second quarterly Civil-Military Cooperation Media Chat for 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant, Gen. Oluyede highlighted the vital role of the media in national development and called for deeper cooperation between the military and journalists. While noting that he oversees seven states including Kwara, Kogi, Edo, Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, and Ondo, the GOC – Obinna Onubogu emphasized that he was in Akure not in his official capacity as GOC, but to represent the Chief of Army Staff and deliver his message.
“I am honoured to address this distinguished gathering today in the city of Akure, known for its hospitality and economic prowess,” he began. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Nigerian Army’s civil-military engagement amid persistent security challenges facing the country.
“As the Nigerian Army continues to combat myriads of security challenges bedeviling our nation through deliberate kinetic and non-kinetic operations, it is incumbent for all patriotic citizens and stakeholders to play their individual roles in our collective effort towards a secure and safe nation,” he said.
Gen. Oluyede stressed that modern military operations demand the cooperation of the entire nation, with the media playing a central role in educating and mobilizing the populace.
“Our best allies in terms of national security are those who control the minds of citizens, and that is the media,” he stated. Speaking to the theme of the event, “Military-Media Cooperation: A Panacea for Enhanced National Security and Development,” he declared the long-standing debate settled: “The pen is mightier than the sword. However, at the end of the day, you need the sword to hold the pen.”
The general called for enhanced collaboration between the press and the military, advocating for mutual respect, continuous dialogue, and responsible reporting. He urged journalists to balance their reports for national interest with the right to information while avoiding the spread of misinformation or content that could destabilize the country.
“The Nigerian Army is committed to enhancing media access to our operations while maintaining operational security,” he affirmed. “This commitment highlights the importance of a transparent communication strategy and the need for both the Army and the media to embrace their respective roles and responsibilities.”
The keynote emphasized the Army’s desire for coverage that goes beyond conflict, encouraging media to also highlight efforts in peace building, national development, and community engagement. He noted the Nigerian Army’s intensified regional operations and cited successes including the rescue of abducted Nigerians and the safe return of internally displaced persons to their communities.
In his remarks, Gen. Oluyede extended appreciation to the people and government of Ondo State, especially Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and praised the bravery and dedication of Nigerian troops. He also reaffirmed the Army’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I am grateful to Mr. President for his strategic guidance and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army,” he said, concluding his address by officially declaring the second-quarter media chat open.
The event underscored the military’s growing recognition of media partnership as a cornerstone for national unity, development, and a more secure Nigeria.
