Musa says responsible journalism is vital to national security as DECAN names him Grand Patron.
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has emphasised the critical role of the media in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, describing effective collaboration between journalists and the military as essential in the fight against asymmetric warfare.
Musa stated this while receiving the executive members of the Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
He said the Ministry would continue to maintain an open-door policy to foster cordial relations with the media and ensure Nigerians receive timely, accurate and credible information on defence and security matters.
“The military really needs the media at this period of asymmetric warfare. My office will continue to maintain an open-door policy to foster a cordial relationship with the media and ensure the dissemination of accurate information to the public,” he said.
The minister urged defence correspondents to remain fair, balanced and professional in their reportage, noting that responsible journalism is vital to national security and public trust. He also assured the association that feasible proposals presented by DECAN would receive immediate consideration.
Earlier, DECAN President, Odita Sunday, congratulated Musa on his appointment as Minister of Defence, describing it as a reflection of his professionalism, competence and distinguished service to the nation.
He announced that the association would confer on Musa the title of Grand Patron of DECAN during its Conference and Awards scheduled for October 2026 and unveil its quarterly publication, Defence Correspondents, at the event.
Odita reaffirmed DECAN’s commitment to responsible journalism and called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and defence correspondents through regular media engagements and timely dissemination of defence-related information.
He said closer cooperation would enhance public confidence in the Armed Forces, promote patriotism and ensure Nigerians have access to credible and accurate information on the activities of the Ministry of Defence.