By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) — The Federal Government has called for deeper collaboration between security agencies and the media, describing the partnership as critical to Nigeria’s efforts to tackle insecurity and strengthen national resilience.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by his aide on strategic communication, Chido Onumah, made the call on Thursday at the National Security Summit organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS).
The summit, themed “Media and Security Agencies as Partners in Nation Building,” brought together security chiefs, media executives, academics and policymakers to discuss ways of enhancing cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
Speaking at the event, Idris said the summit was timely, noting that emerging threats such as terrorism, violent extremism, cybercrime, organised criminality and disinformation have made it necessary to rethink traditional security approaches.
According to him, effective national security management requires not only military action but also informed public engagement and responsible communication.
“The relationship between the media and security agencies must be founded on mutual respect, professionalism, trust and an appreciation of their complementary roles,” the minister said.
He explained that the partnership aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places security at the centre of national development efforts through military operations, intelligence gathering, technological advancements and community engagement.
Idris highlighted recent security gains, including the neutralisation of terrorists and bandits, rescue of kidnapped victims, dismantling of criminal hideouts and investments in intelligence and surveillance infrastructure.
However, he warned that misinformation, sensational reporting and the dissemination of unverified information could undermine security operations and erode public confidence.
“National security is not served when misinformation is amplified without verification. Neither is it served when legitimate public concerns are ignored,” he said, urging journalists to adhere strictly to ethical standards and professional reporting practices.
Representing the NSA, Onumah stressed the need for a structured mechanism that would facilitate information sharing between security agencies and the media while balancing transparency with operational security.
He disclosed that the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) is developing a National Security Strategic Communication Framework aimed at strengthening cooperation and ensuring the dissemination of credible information.
“We are all in this together. Journalists must have access to credible information, while security agencies must improve their communication and transparency,” Onumah said.
“The framework will help reduce the risk of reports that could inadvertently aid terrorists or criminal elements, while protecting the public’s right to know.”
He added that the proposed framework would also provide practical measures such as timely verified briefings during emergencies and the designation of liaison officers to facilitate the flow of accurate information between security institutions and media organisations.
Both speakers emphasised that contemporary security challenges require a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic responses.
They cited the Defence Ministry’s assessment that addressing insecurity is “40 per cent kinetic and 60 per cent non-kinetic,” underscoring the importance of strategic communication, information management and community engagement in achieving lasting peace and stability.
The summit concluded with commitments from both media practitioners and security agencies to deepen engagement, strengthen trust and establish effective mechanisms for verification and responsible reporting.
The DSS received commendation from the NUJ for fostering constructive dialogue, while the Defence Ministry indicated plans to embed journalists with military formations to improve the accuracy and context of operational reporting.
Idris maintained that a professional and ethical media operating alongside transparent and accountable security institutions would enhance public confidence and strengthen democratic governance.
“The media informs citizens, shapes public opinion and promotes accountability; security agencies protect lives and property. Where these functions are coordinated, democracy and development are strengthened,” he said.
Participants at the summit pledged to support the implementation of the proposed communication framework and sustain regular engagements aimed at safeguarding national security while preserving the public’s right to information.
