The Nigerian Army on Sunday, hosted a luncheon for a cross-section of the media, members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and Katsina State media personnel at the Officers Mess, 17 Brigade Headquarters.
Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade Nigerian Army, spoke at the event, which also marked the upcoming Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day.
He emphasised that the media luncheon was designed to create a relaxed environment for networking and fostering collaboration between the media and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He highlighted the increasing importance of the media in shaping public opinion, influencing military operations, and rallying public support as the country navigates the information age.
He said: “Embedding journalists in the planning and conduct of military operations would help greatly in checking negative reports on the activities of security agencies.
‘’The luncheon serves as a platform for the military to engrave its friendship with the media and bridge the existing divide between them.”
The Commander further challenged media practitioners to be patriotic in the performance of their duties and avoid reports that would be detrimental to national interest and security.
He also noted that the commemoration of the arm forces day marked a special place in both individually and collectively as an Army.
According to him, moments like this reminds troops of the significance of loyalty, obedience and sacrifice as well as providing a unique opportunity for troops to reflect and readjust efforts towards justifying the confidence reposed in them by Nigerians.
He further expressed his appreciation for the immense sacrifice of the media in Operation Fansan Yamma and other ongoing operations across the country.
He also paid special tributes to colleagues who have paid the supreme price in the defence of their fatherland while noting that the Brigade under his watch will continue to provide for the welfare and comfort of their families.
