The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the African Centre for Media and Intercultural Dialogue (ACMID) and the Mass Communication Students’ Association of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has held the Tertiary Students and Future Journalists’ Parley with the theme “Harmonizing Diverse Perspectives for National Security”.
The event took place on Tuesday August 12, 2025, at the Afe Babalola Hall, UNILAG.
Dr. Olunifesi Suraj, Associate Professor at UNILAG’s Department of Mass Communication and Coordinator of ACMID, urged participants to combine “courage and compassion” in their approach to security reporting.
“Your work as journalists will bridge the gap between defense operations and public understanding. The military is made up of people — friends, brothers, and sisters — who risk their lives to keep the nation safe. Report with empathy, avoid sensationalism, and use your platforms to foster trust, dialogue, and truth,” he said.
He highlighted ACMID’s ongoing collaborations with security agencies to promote accurate reporting, counter misinformation, and train journalists in responsible conflict coverage.
Representing the institution’s vice-chancellor, the Dean, Faculty of Media and Communication, Prof Sunday Oloruntola, described the parley as a critical platform for strengthening civil–military relations.
“The media is not just a mirror of events; it can either magnify fear or amplify hope. As future journalists, you must tell stories that build trust and unity, not division. National security is the responsibility of every citizen, not soldiers alone,” she said, commending the Nigerian Army for partnering with academia to shape informed, responsible communicators.
Commander Oyetola, who represented the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, stressed the media’s pivotal role in shaping public perception and supporting national security.
“Security challenges today go beyond traditional warfare. They include economic, political, and cyber threats. Harmonizing diverse perspectives is key to sustaining peace. Young Nigerians must resist radical ideologies, use media responsibly, and see themselves as partners in national development,” he said.
Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, encouraged students to value accuracy and context in digital journalism.
“Misinformation can fuel conflict. When mistakes happen, don’t focus on blame — focus on correcting the record. The relationship between the media and the military should be built on mutual respect, accuracy, and accountability,” he advised.
The parley ended with a call for sustained collaboration between the military, academia, and the media to promote peace, counter disinformation, and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic and security institutions.
