By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has called for stronger collaboration with journalists across the country, emphasizing the vital role of responsible reporting in national security and public trust.
Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made the appeal during an interactive session with members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, who paid a courtesy visit to the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Air Commodore Ejodame described journalists as “frontline workers in peace and conflict communication,” noting that the relationship between the media and the military must be built on “trust, honesty, and mutual understanding.”
“We operate in different spaces, but both of us handle information that can save lives,” he said. “Some details belong in the public domain, while others require discretion. When we withhold certain information, it’s not secrecy it’s about protecting lives.”
The NAF spokesperson warned that the careless publication of sensitive details, such as troop movements or casualty figures, could jeopardize operations and endanger personnel. He urged journalists to remain vigilant against misinformation, stressing that fake news could inadvertently support insurgents and destabilize communities.
Ejodame further highlighted the transformation within the Nigerian Air Force, describing it as a “smarter, people-centred force” driven by technology, intelligence, and precision.
“The Nigerian Air Force is not just about bombs and bullets. We are building a force that is technology-driven and deeply sensitive to civilian safety,” he added.
Responding, Ms. Grace Ike, Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism and transparency in public communication. She reaffirmed the union’s commitment to promoting factual and responsible journalism that strengthens national unity and confidence in security institutions.
“Open communication between the military and the media is essential for building public trust and combating misinformation,” she said.
Ms. Ike also congratulated the NAF Football Team on their recent victory at the NUJ FCT Football Tournament, describing the achievement as “a reflection of the discipline, teamwork, and excellence that define the Nigerian Air Force.”
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to deepen cooperation between the media and the military in advancing accurate reporting, peacebuilding, and public awareness on national security issues.
