The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, has pledged to improve media access to its operations within the bounds of operational security.
This, he said, would aid accurate reporting of the military and build trust between the Nigerian Army and the civilian population.
He also said the media and the army must extend their engagements to areas of national development, peace-building and community inclusion to foster national security.
He spoke during a media chat on the Nigerian Army civil-military cooperation in Kano.
The armychief, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Major-General Mayirenso Lander David Saraso, said, “The collaboration between the military and the media should not be limited to the reporting of conflicts, terrorism or security threats.
“We must extend our engagements to areas of national development, peace-building and community engagement. Joint efforts in highlighting projects and initiatives aimed at uplifting the lives of our citizens will contribute to fostering a positive image of the Nigerian Army and its commitment to nation-building.”
Kwara gov seeks better military-civil relations
Meanwhile, the Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Thursday urged Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifices of the security agencies, including the Nigerian Army in keeping the country safe.
He said the military has played important roles in supporting civilian authorities at all times, including at a time when the country was under intense pressure from hostile non-state actors.
The governor spoke in Igbaja, Ifelodun LG of the state, at the commissioning of a Computer Based Testing (CBT) centre, a special intervention project of the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General T. A. Lagbaja.