NUJ FCT Easter Retreat: Defence Chief Tasks Journalists on Truth, Unity

At the NUJ FCT Easter Retreat in Abuja, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, urged journalists to uphold truth, accuracy, and professionalism as vital tools for national unity and security. He emphasized that Nigeria’s stability depends not only on military operations but also on responsible information management by the media.

NUJ FCT Easter Retreat -  Defence Chief Tasks Journalists on Truth and Unity

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council organized its annual Easter Retreat in Abuja as a platform for reflection, renewal, and professional commitment.

The retreat coincided with the Easter season, symbolizing hope, resurrection, and national renewal. It brought together journalists, media stakeholders, and representatives of the Armed Forces to deliberate on the role of journalism in Nigeria’s democratic and security landscape.

General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, delivered a strong message highlighting the critical role of the press in national stability.

Speaking through a representative, he stressed:

- Truth and professionalism are indispensable for journalism.

- Responsible reporting is a pillar of national unity and security.

- Nigeria’s stability relies not only on military operations but also on how information is managed and shared.

- The Armed Forces remain resolute in defending the country amid persistent security threats, but journalists must complement these efforts by ensuring accurate and balanced reporting.

General Oluyede linked his message to the Easter theme of resurrection and renewal, noting that Nigeria continues to face complex security challenges but must embrace hope and resilience.

He emphasized that just as Easter signifies rebirth, journalists should renew their commitment to truth and unity, helping to rebuild trust in institutions and strengthen national cohesion.

The NUJ FCT Council echoed the Defence Chief’s sentiments, calling on journalists to recommit themselves to professional ethics, accuracy, and fairness. The retreat served as a reminder that journalism is not only about reporting events but also about shaping narratives that foster peace, unity, and development.

This retreat underscored the interdependence between the Armed Forces and the media:

- The military safeguards territorial integrity.

- The media safeguards informational integrity by ensuring truth and unity in public discourse.

Together, these efforts are essential for overcoming Nigeria’s current challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and misinformation.

The NUJ FCT Easter Retreat highlighted the strategic role of journalists in Nigeria’s security and unity, with the Defence Chief urging them to embrace truth and professionalism as their guiding principles.

The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to defending the nation, while the NUJ emphasized the need for renewed dedication to ethical journalism.

This collaboration between the military and the media reflects a broader vision of national renewal, unity, and resilience.