Correspondents’ Chapel Trains Members on Ethics and Security Considerations in Coverage of Military Operations
Our Reporter
Ethics and security considerations in media coverage of military operations were the primary focus of a recent one-day training organized for media practitioners in Jos, Plateau State.
The training, hosted by the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in collaboration with the Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), aimed to explore the critical balance between journalistic integrity and military operational security.
In his welcome remarks, the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Mr. Polycarp Auta, stated that the theme of the training, “Ethics and Security Considerations in Media Coverage of Military Operations,” was timely and intended to provide media practitioners with valuable professional insights.
He emphasized the crucial role of journalists in informing the public while navigating a complex ethical landscape stating that the training would help participants better understand the relationship between a free press and national security, how to build trust, and the structure and frameworks of the military.
The Correspondents’ chapel chairman said, “Today, we will discuss best practices for reporting in conflict zones, the importance of understanding military protocols, and the ethical implications of our coverage. Together, we aim to foster a responsible media environment that respects both the need for transparency and the necessity of security. This training will expose us to essential ethical and security considerations, as well as the protection of sources when reporting on military operations. I urge everyone to engage in thoughtful discussions that will enhance our skills for impactful reporting.”
The keynote address was delivered by Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, General Officer Commanding the 3 Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven, represented by Brigadier General M.O. Agi.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the military and the media, acknowledging the vital role journalists play in informing the public while being sensitive to national security concerns.
The General Officer Commanding remarked, “Responsible journalism during military operations is crucial. Sensational or inaccurate reporting erodes public trust and can jeopardize operational success.”
He advised journalists to adhere to ethical standards and to consider how their reports impact victims, their families, and communities.
The training included presentations on “Understanding Military Structures and Operations as a Crucial Guide to Effective Media Coverage,” delivered by Major Aliyu Danja, the Acting Director of Public Relations of the 3rd Armoured Division.
The second presentation, “Reporting Military Operations: Ethics, Security Considerations, Cultivation, and Protection of News Sources,” was given by Mr. Ephraim Sheyin, the immediate past Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria.
Journalists from both public and privately owned media outlets, as well as representatives from the new media, participated in the training.
Goodwill messages were received from the Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA), the Commissioner of Police of the Plateau State Command, and the Plateau Peace Practitioners Network, among others.
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