By Moh Bello Habib, Zaria
Sensational journalism worries Nigerian Army, the Chief Army Staff, Lieutenant General has a Taoreed Lagbaja at formal opening ceremony of 3 day international conference themed "Media, Security and Development" organized by Department of Mass Communication, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria delivered by Director General Nigerian Television Authority, Alhaji Salihu Danbo.
He restates army's commitment to embed journalists and stakeholders in low risk military operational activities enhance civil-military relations towards taming in the country.
General Lagbaja was represented by Brigafier General Moto Akinojo, Commander, 41 Engineering Brigade in presenting a keynote address on Communication, Media Security and Development: Issues, challenges and way Forward.
The COAS highlighted need to prioritize training for journalists in conflict reporting to ensure accurate presentation of the situation
He added that the training was also essential in winning the trust, belief and confidence of the populace.
"Armed forces of Nigeria have a clear understanding of the profound impact that media narratives have on military operations and socio-economic fabric of Nigeria.
"I therefore called on the media to shun sensational reportage in the interest security and national development" said the COAS
Earlier the Vice-Chancellor of University, Professor Kabir Bala while commending the department for organizing the conference urged other departments not relent in organizing such events to foster intellectual discourse for national development.
"The conference has over 200 local and international participants it will avail participants and scholars an opportunity to proffer recommendations on better ways to tame the fire of insecurity in the country." He said
In her contribution the head of the organising Department Dr Adama Adamu said for close to two decades Nigeria was facing insecurities in many parts of the country.
She added that the challenges includes proliferations of misinformation and fake news, extremists ideologies and erosion of public trust from traditional media institutions.
Dr Adamu said that the conference offered unique opportunities to look into the challenges with a view to proffer solutions and recommendations
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