17 Brigade Commander Seeks Stronger Ties with Journalists in Katsina
- Katsina City News
- 10 Jan, 2025
- 60
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar, Katsina Times
In a special interactive session held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Natsinta Barracks, Katsina, the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 17 Brigade, Brigadier General Bo Omopariola, emphasized the military’s commitment to fostering better relations with journalists and ensuring timely dissemination of information.
Speaking at the meeting, General Omopariola addressed various questions from journalists, providing clarity on how information flows from the Defence Headquarters. He stated, “Our communication system is structured top-down to ensure that information reaches the public without distortion.”
The commander assured that his brigade would ensure prompt delivery of information to journalists as soon as clearance is obtained from the Defence Headquarters. "We will ensure that our APR (Assistant Public Relations Officer) provides updates within an hour of release," he said.
Responding to concerns about the lack of access for Hausa-language media, General Omopariola affirmed, “We will give more attention to Hausa media outlets due to their crucial role in reaching local communities.” He pledged to involve Hausa journalists in exclusive operations and reports.
To the Newspaper correspondents, the commander guaranteed better engagement. "We will no longer ignore your calls or queries. Even when full details are unavailable, you will be kept informed promptly," he assured.
General Omopariola urged journalists to prioritize thorough investigations before publishing reports. He said, “This interaction is to streamline communication and improve understanding between the military and the media.”
The commander announced the establishment of a WhatsApp platform to enhance communication between the military and journalists. This platform, he explained, will connect Public Relations Officers and operations staff to ensure rapid information sharing.
He stressed the importance of journalists' safety, particularly when visiting military camps or conflict zones. “We will not risk taking you to locations where your safety cannot be guaranteed,” he stated.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Katsina Chapter, Mallam Tukur Hassan Danali, commended the military for the initiative. He remarked, “This engagement marks a new chapter in the relationship between the military and the media, especially in ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination.”
He added, “The NUJ remains committed to ensuring that the stories we publish are based on truth and thorough investigation. We hope this partnership will yield positive results for all stakeholders.”
The session provided a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and establishing a robust communication framework aimed at strengthening the relationship between security agencies and journalists while ensuring the public receives timely and accurate information.
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