The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Wahidi Shaibu, has called for deeper cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the media to counter misinformation and strengthen national security.

 General Shuaibu made the appeal Wednesday during the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Quarterly Media Chat for the Fourth Quarter of 2025, held in Jos, the Plateau state capital.

Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3rd Armoured Division, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the COAS noted that while technological advancement has enhanced communication, it has also enabled the rapid spread of fake news, disinformation, and the misuse of digital platforms. 

General Shaibu said the theme, “The Nigerian Security Environment: Role of Strategic Communication in Strengthening Civil-Military Relations underscores the essential role of information management.” 

He urged journalists to maintain objective, credible, and responsible reporting, especially on security matters, and to verify content particularly AI-generated materials before publication.

“Our current security environment demands stronger cooperation between the pen and the sword,” the COAS said.

He added that regular communication between the army and the media is crucial for transparency, public trust, and countering harmful narratives.

General Shaibu reaffirmed the army’s commitment to granting the media better access to its operations while safeguarding operational security. 

The COAS also called on Nigerians to continue supporting troops engaged in restoring peace across the country.