At his first media briefing following the posting out of Major General OM Bello on 14 Nov 25,whose tenure was marked by steadfast commitment and effective communication and he is committed to building upon that strong foundation as we navigate the challenges ahead.
"First and foremost, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to all of you, the dedicated members of the media for your unwavering cooperation with the Military over the years. You are the heroes of democracy, tirelessly upholding the principles of free speech, accountability, and informed citizenship that form the bedrock of our democratic society. Your contributions through investigative reporting, public awareness campaigns, and holding power to account have been instrumental in strengthening Nigeria's democratic institutions and empowering our people with knowledge. Your role in disseminating accurate information has been invaluable, fostering public trust and supporting our shared goal of national security and stability. However, I must also caution against unethical practices that occasionally tarnish the profession; a few media actors fabricate stories or resist accountability, which undermines the credibility of the entire industry. I urge you all to continue promoting high standards that prioritize verification above virality, ensuring that facts guide your narratives rather than the pursuit of sensationalism. In times like these, where insecurity poses significant threats to our communities, the Defence Headquarters needs you more than ever. Together, we can counter the spread of misinformation that often originates from well-intentioned but uninformed citizens, or worse, from those seeking to sow discord. By partnering closely, we ensure that the truth prevails, safeguarding our nation's unity and resilience" Onoja said.
Onoja explained that under the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede the Chief of Defence Staff, that the Nigerian Armed Forces are implementing robust measures to curb the prevailing insecurities across the nation. That General Oluyede is ensuring the forces are better equipped to respond swiftly to threats. He has also introduced innovative strategies aimed at combating insurgency, including intensified intelligence gathering, joint operations with allied security agencies, and community engagement initiatives that foster trust and gather grassroots intelligence. These efforts are designed to sustain the current security tempo, with a focus on professionalism, discipline, and accountability, ultimately aiming to restore lasting peace and stability in affected regions.
The Defence Spokesman elaborated that General Oluyede is advocating for increased resources to address key challenges in the fight against insecurity, emphasizing improved welfare for our troops as a cornerstone of operational success. This includes recent enhancements such as the increase in the Ration Cash Allowance and the distribution of modern equipment, which not only boost morale but also enhance the effectiveness of frontline personnel. By prioritizing the "Soldiers First" agenda, he is ensuring that our armed forces remain motivated and resilient, while also strengthening inter-agency collaborations to tackle root causes like terrorism and banditry. These comprehensive approaches underscore a commitment to holistic security solutions that protect citizens and promote national development.
"Let me assure you that the Defence Media Operations remains fully open for discussions at any time. Whether it's clarifying ongoing operations, providing context on emerging issues, or addressing public concerns, my door and that of the senior officers within the department are always open. I encourage you to reach out directly to me as the Director of Defence Media Operations for the official military perspective on any narratives circulating in the public domain. This proactive approach will help us maintain transparency and accuracy in reporting, ultimately serving the best interests of our citizens" General Onoja emphasised.
Onoja concluded that as they embark on this new chapter, he emphasized their collective responsibility in promoting peace and security. That soon, this department will be ramping up efforts to enhance information sharing, including regular briefings, fact-checking mechanisms, and collaborative workshops to equip the Defence Correspondents with the tools needed for responsible journalism in sensitive areas. That their insights and feedback are crucial to them that they should feel free to share them in future engagements.