By SUNDAY ABBA, Abuja
The Coordinator of Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, has stressed the need for journalists to handle dissemination of security information with utmost care in national interest.
Laka stated this in his address while hosting an end-of-year media chat on behalf of the National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu in his office on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said, “As a Centre, we have long recognised and deeply valued the consistent support you have extended to our work. Through accurate reporting, responsible commentary, and constructive engagement, you have played a vital role in enhancing national awareness, countering extremist propaganda, and promoting unity in the face of adversity. These contributions are both significant and deeply appreciated.
“At the same time, this parley provides an important platform to reiterate a matter of critical national interest: the need for caution in the handling and dissemination of sensitive security information.
“In an era of instant news cycles, digital virality, and intense competition for breaking stories, the line between public interest and national security imperatives can sometimes become blurred.
“Operational details, intelligence-led activities, and ongoing investigations are, by their nature, highly sensitive. Premature or detailed disclosure of such information, however well-intentioned, can compromise operations, endanger lives, undermine ongoing efforts, and inadvertently aid adversaries who actively exploit open-source information.
“Ladies and gentlemen, our appeal, therefore, is not for silence, but for responsibility. Not for restraint in holding institutions accountable, but for discernment in separating what should be reported immediately from what should be handled with caution or deferred in the overriding interest of national security.
“We believe strongly that national security and press freedom are not opposing forces. Rather, they are complementary pillars of a stable democracy. A well-informed public is essential, but so is the protection of sensitive operational processes that safeguard our citizens and those on the frontlines of security.
“As partners, we encourage continued dialogue, consultation, and mutual trust. The National Counter Terrorism Centre remains committed to engaging the media through briefings, background sessions, and structured information sharing to ensure that reporting is accurate, contextual, and does not inadvertently jeopardise national security objectives.”
Maj- Gen Laka expressed optimism that with all hands on deck, more will be achieved in the coming year 2026 in terms of the fight against terrorism and other armed crimes, soliciting the support of the media whom he described as a vital ally.
He said, “As we look ahead to the coming year, our collective task remains clear. terrorism, violent extremism, and organized criminals continue to evolve in form and tactics. Countering them requires efficient strategic communication, public awareness, and national cohesion.
“In this regard, the media remains a vital ally. Similarly, the evolving tactics of terrorists and bandits demand stronger coordination, deeper intelligence fusion, and strategic communication that denies criminals the publicity they seek while reassuring citizens of the state’s resolve and capacity. Therefore, your continued cooperation and understanding are indispensable.”
Responding to questions from members of the press, Laka stated that insecurity in Nigeria worsened following the military coups in Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali.
According to the general, the Sahel region, particularly Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali, has witnessed heightened instability and increased extremist activities, which have the potential to negatively impact Nigeria’s security situation.
“We have these countries facing these threats and we think we will see peace in Nigeria? No.
“You must have noticed that towards the end of 2023, the security situation was improving, but immediately after the coups in these countries, that was when the situation began to get worse, because these terrorist groups have connections across the Sahel.
“So Nigeria has to play that leadership role in West Africa and the Sahel to address these threats.
He concluded his speech by thanking media men for their collaboration, professionalism, and dedication throughout the year, and soliciting more support in the coming year.
“We count on your continued support, understanding, and responsible partnership as we work together to keep Nigeria safe, secure, and united. I wish you happy celebrations and a peaceful, prosperous, and productive year ahead,” he said.