By Emmanuel Obisue
The Nigerian Pilot Newspaper has expressed readiness to work more closely with the Nigerian Army in advancing National Security and safeguarding National Interest, as both institutions move to strengthen ties in the face of ongoing security challenges nationwide.
This assurance was given on Tuesday in Abuja when the Director of Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Appolonia Anele, led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to the Abuja Holding Office of the Nigerian Pilot.
Speaking during the visit, Anele explained that the engagement was initiated at the instance of the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa, as part of a broader call for synergy between the media and the Armed Forces.
She stressed that beyond combat operations, the military requires robust storytelling and accurate reportage to highlight its achievements in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats.
While applauding the Nigerian Pilot for what she described as “consistent and balanced coverage of military successes”, the Army spokesperson urged the media to sustain a responsible approach. She made a passionate appeal for the press to strike a balance between National Security and National Interest in their reportage, noting that security narratives carry immense implications for public trust and national cohesion.
In his response, the News Editor/Abuja Bureau Chief of Nigerian Pilot, Michael Oche, commended the sacrifices of the Nigerian military, affirming that their commitment has ensured that “Nigerians are safe, and can sleep with their eyes closed”.
Oche further assured the Army leadership of the Pilot’s commitment to deeper collaboration in the national interest, pledging that the paper would continue to project security stories responsibly.
He however faulted the current posture of many media houses, insisting that they were not doing enough to highlight the daily efforts and sacrifices of the military.
Nigerian Pilot reports that over the years, the Nigerian Armed Forces have sustained nationwide operations to degrade terrorist groups, tackle banditry, restore peace in crisis-torn communities, and protect critical national assets. Through joint operations, intelligence-led strikes, and increased collaboration with local communities, the military has recorded significant gains.
