Army seeks stronger media partnership in counter-insurgency efforts in northwest
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Sokoto, and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Paul Bemgha Koughna, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Sokoto, and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Northwest Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Paul Bemgha Koughna, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the media in its counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
Koughna made this known on Thursday in Sokoto while receiving executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel, Sokoto State, during a courtesy visit. He described the media as a strategic partner in the military’s effort to win the hearts and minds of Nigerians.
He noted that the media plays a critical role in both kinetic and non-kinetic operations against insecurity. “The media serves as the bridge between the military institution and the public, disseminating factual, accurate and balanced information on operational activities,” he said.
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The GOC assured that the division would continue to work closely with journalists in advancing its strategic response to security challenges, acknowledging the media’s access to information and its influence on public perception.
“You are known for factual and balanced reportage based on verifiable information. Such professionalism is essential in preventing misconceptions, confusion and sensational narratives,” he stated.
Koughna, the 11th GOC of the division, added that the Army would sustain its civil-military relations initiatives to enhance humanitarian support and foster stronger community cooperation.
He further disclosed that normalcy had returned to Tidibale village following reports of residents fleeing the area, assuring that the community is now secure and safe for normal activities.
Earlier, Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in Sokoto State, Mr. Ankeli Emmanuel, said the visit was aimed at consolidating the existing working relationship between the media and the military, particularly in promoting objective coverage of security operations in the Northwest and across the country.
