NUJ Plateau Chairperson Meets GOC 3 Division, Call For Balanced Reporting To Foster Peace and Stability

NUJ Plateau Chairperson Meets GOC 3 Division, Call For Balanced Reporting To Foster Peace and Stability

In a significant outreach aimed at enhancing media-military relations, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Plateau State Chapter, Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, led a delegation to the Headquarters of the 3 Division Nigerian Army at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos. This pivotal visit sought not only to commend the military’s ongoing efforts in addressing security challenges in the region but also to advocate for responsible journalism that supports peace in Plateau State.

Mrs. Pwaspo praised Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), for his active engagement in mitigating security threats and fostering dialogue among various stakeholders. “Your proactive leadership has been instrumental in maintaining stability in our communities,” she stated, underscoring the importance of collaboration between journalists and the military.

During the visit, the NUJ delegation highlighted the critical role of the media as a partner in peacebuilding. Mrs. Pwaspo urged journalists in the state to prioritize balanced and objective reporting. “In times of conflict, sensationalism can exacerbate tensions. As journalists, we have a responsibility to present facts accurately and fairly,” she emphasized, calling for an adherence to ethical reporting standards that nurture trust and understanding among the public.

Major General Oyinlola echoed these sentiments, recognizing the media’s power in shaping public perception and countering misinformation—one of the key drivers of social unrest. “The media is a vital partner in peacebuilding. While constructive criticism is essential, we must also highlight the sacrifices of security personnel to boost morale and foster national unity,” he articulated during the meeting.

The GOC also raised concerns about the potential repercussions of biased reporting. “Inflammatory headlines can lead to misunderstandings that may escalate into violence. Balanced reporting is not just a journalistic duty; it is a crucial component in maintaining peace and stability,” he added.

In a bid to further galvanize support for accurate reporting, the GOC encouraged the NUJ to organize workshops and seminars aimed at educating journalists on the importance of responsible reporting during conflict situations. “We are prepared to collaborate with the NUJ on initiatives that enhance the capacity of journalists to report responsibly,” he stated, emphasizing the readiness of the military to engage constructively with media practitioners.

The meeting concluded with both the NUJ and the 3 Division reaffirming their commitment to ongoing collaboration in promoting peace and security across Plateau State and beyond. The pledge to work together towards a common goal of stability resonates against the backdrop of Nigeria’s broader security challenges, where misinformation continues to pose a significant threat.

The significance of this visit lies in its potential to foster a culture of partnership between the military and the media, encouraging a shared responsibility for promoting peace. As Plateau State navigates its complex security landscape, balanced and responsible journalism may prove to be an invaluable asset in ensuring that the narratives around conflict and peace are grounded in truth and integrity.

This visit marks a hopeful step forward in bridging the gap between two critical institutions in society, as both the NUJ and the military recognize that cooperation is essential in building a peaceful and secure Nigeria.