The Commander of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Katsina State, Brigadier-General Babatunde Omopariola, emphasized the importance of prioritizing developmental journalism in the fight against insecurity during a recent luncheon with the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Katsina State Council.
The gathering, held at the Command’s Officer Mess, aimed to foster a collaborative environment between the media and military as part of the lead-up to the 2025 Armed Forces celebration and Remembrance Day.
Brigadier-General Omopariola stated that the event was designed to create a relaxed atmosphere for networking, allowing for productive dialogue between the military and the media. He highlighted the media’s crucial role in shaping public opinion and supporting military operations, particularly in the information age.
“Embedding journalists in the planning and execution of military operations can significantly mitigate negative narratives surrounding security forces,” he noted. Omopariola underscored the need to foster a cooperative relationship between the military and the media to bridge existing gaps.
He further urged media practitioners to exhibit patriotism in their reporting and to refrain from disseminating information that could harm national interests and security.
The Commander acknowledged the significance of the remembrance season for both individuals and the Army collectively, taking a moment to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. He assured that the Brigade would continue to prioritize the welfare of the families of fallen soldiers.
In response, the Katsina State Council Chairman expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Brigade, affirming that journalists would continue to collaborate with the military and other security agencies to enhance interagency cooperation and support.
