The Federal Government is weighing plans to allow journalists accompany military personnel on selected operations as part of efforts to improve security reporting and enhance public understanding of ongoing security efforts across the country.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, disclosed the proposal on Thursday during the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abuja.
Represented by his Special Adviser, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, the Defence Minister said the initiative is designed to strengthen cooperation between the media and security agencies while promoting greater openness in the reporting of military activities.
According to Musa, the media remains a critical partner in national security because of its influence on public perception and confidence in government institutions.
He noted that modern security challenges are no longer fought solely on the battlefield, as information and public narratives now play a significant role in shaping outcomes.
The minister explained that the effectiveness of military operations should not only be measured by territorial gains or the elimination of threats but also by the trust citizens place in security institutions.
He described journalists as important contributors to national stability, adding that the ministry is exploring a framework that would enable reporters to gain firsthand experience of military operations.
Musa said the proposed arrangement would encourage more accurate, balanced and informed reporting by giving journalists direct access to operational environments and a better understanding of security realities.
He added that the move forms part of broader efforts to improve communication between the armed forces and the media while ensuring that information reaching the public reflects developments on the ground.
The Defence Minister expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between journalists and security agencies would help combat misinformation, strengthen public trust and support national security objectives.