By Jutah Gupah, Maiduguri
The Nigerian Army has urged the media to collaborate in the ongoing war against Boko Haram insurgency that has claimed many lives and property in the Northeast. Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 7 Division, Brig-Gen. Abdulmalik Biu made the call on Wednesday at a luncheon for Defence Correspondents at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri. The Director, Army Public Relations, Brig-Gen. Texas Chukwu disclosed this on Thursday in a statement released in Maiduguri. According to him, the media’s partnership and continuous reportage has been a weapon to end insurgency. While tasking the media on professionalism, Chukwu in the statement said: “Journalists are critical Stakeholders in the fight against terrorists. “This luncheon was organized in appreciation of your efforts and to thank you for the good works in counter-insurgency operations at the theatre.” Biu also urged journalists to continue with the path for truth by clarifying facts from the military before publications. “I assured you of the Army Division’s cooperation at all times. It has competent media/public relations officers that are ready to attend to you,” said Biu. Continuing, he said: “The larger populace will continue to depend on the information coming from correspondents on ground. This is to arrive at the conclusion about insurgency in the Northeast.” Chairman of Correspondents’ Chapel, Haruna Dauda assured the GOC of members’ continual reportage of events. He said the media will continue to maintain the ethics of the profession. He also condemned activities of some unscrupulous elements in the social media. According to him, activities of some social media tarnish the image of journalists in the state.
